The Fukudome Situation

Cubs right fielder Kosuke Fukudome did a respectable job over the season’s first three months, hitting .296/.404/.430.  However, he plummeted to just .207/.297/.313 thereafter.  His defense was acceptable – four bases saved compared to the average right fielder. 

The Cubs have decided to platoon Fukudome with Reed Johnson in center field, where the bar for offense is lower (though Fukudome actually hit lefties better than righties this year).  Jim Hendry says he informed Fukudome that the Cubs might add an outfielder this winter.

According to the Chicago Tribune’s Dave van Dyck, the Cubs received multiple trade inquiries on Fukudome.  Problem is, he’s owed $38MM over the next three seasons and has no-trade protection.  Fukudome was highly sought after a year ago, with the White Sox and Padres among his suitors.  Now, the Cubs just have to hope he improves.