The day when all goes right.

Chicago Cubs fans are supposed to be unhappy. Because the Cubs lost out to the New York Yankees. In the signing of a highly-touted Japanese pitcher named Tanaka. But I’m not unhappy. And I’m a diehard Cubs fan. The Yankees have committed to paying $175 million over 7 years. For Tanaka’s services. It’s a gamble. Because Tanaka has never thrown a pitch in the major leagues. He may become a Hall of Fame pitcher. Or he may be a bust. I suspect there are better and safer ways to spend $175 million to improve the Cubs. On multiple free agents, for instance. With a far bigger potential return than the Yankees will get from Tanaka.  Oh, he’ll be a big attendance draw. Initially, at least. Even if he doesn’t win very many games. Last year, in a Japanese league, he finished with a won-lost record of 24-0. With an earned run average of barely over a run per game. And he’s only 25 years old. But throwing fast and artful pitches is hard on an arm. It ain’t natural. Lots of things can go wrong. And often they do. Most Cubs fans know that. We’re just waiting for the day when all goes right. –Jim Broede