Rusch

[Amazinz]

Does Rusch remain in the bullpen as a spot-starter/reliever or does he make the rotation this year because of the (apparent) loss of Clement? Any thoughts?

[perlick29]

Don't the Cubs have other arms that they can possibly insert into the rotation like Mitre, Dempster or even Wuertz, whom I thought was originally a starter?

I wouldn't think Rusch would get it, and I dont see why the Cubs might not sign someone else, so I say no on Rusch.

[ScarletP]

As of right now, I'd assume that Rusch would have the #5 spot. He proved last year that he is a reliable starter. However, it's still December. I'd be suprised if the Cubs didn't make a move to find another pitcher to fill out the rotation.

[Mustangs989]

I don't think the Cubs will go after another starter next season. I would guess to start the season it'll be either Rusch or Mitre and if Angel Guzman has a good ST and strong 1st half in AAA I wouldn't be surprised to see him up after the AS Break.

[bmcginni]

Rusch will be the #5 guy this year behind Prior, Maddux, Wood, & Zambrano. Don't you think GR's '04 season earned him at least the chance?

Dempster, as of now, looks like our Closer. He's still coming off his surgery and couldn't be expected to last a season as a starter. LaTroy goes back to setup, Bowrowski counts his blessings that he's still in the majors.

When one of the SP's goes down, which we all know they will, that's when we'll see Sergio Mitre &/or Angel Guzman.

[ironman]

It sounds like the Cubs are pretty excited to see what Raul Valdez can do in camp this Spring. Valdez is a 27-year old leftie that once pitched on the Cuban National Team. Hopefully he pans out. It'd be nice to see a leftie in that rotation.

Also keep an eye on Reynel Pinto, another leftie. He looked pretty good last year in AA West Tennessee.

[Dmville]

I think it's Glendon's #5 spot to lose.

And if Dempster doesn't show he's the closer in spring and/or they do sign a real closer, he might get a chance at SP I think.

[Steelers Rule]

give rusch a try

[RugbyD]

rusch is the #5 and he's a very good #5 compared to the rest of the league's #5's. the cubs have way too many arms in the minors to have to sign a FA. good time ahead.