Have the Cubs spent their way out of the cellar?

Updated: March 26, 2007, 11:59 AM ET

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The Cubs signed Alfonso Soriano to a eight-year, $136 million contract.

In 2003, the Cubs looked like a team of destiny, racing their way through the playoffs on the strength of Mark Prior, Kerry Wood, Carlos Zambrano and a timely offense. After knocking off the vaunted Atlanta Braves in the NLDS, the Cubbies were a scant few innings away from a chance at true postseason glory.

Not to rip on poor, scapegoated Steve Bartman, but we all know what happened next.

Ever since then, it's been a disaster in Wrigleyville. St. Louis and Houston became the class of the NL Central. Two of the Cubs young pitchers turned out to be made of glass, while the third has been overworked and over-relied upon. Derrek Lee's race for the triple crown thrilled fans, but was derailed by the supporting cast -- how was he going to knock in runs with Neifi Perez (.298 OBP) and Corey Patterson (.254 OBP) making hundreds of outs in front of him? The team hit rock bottom in 2006, dropping to last in the NL Central with no hope in sight.

Now, the team has reason to look forward. GM Jim Hendry went on an epic spending spree this past offseason, locking up stud free agent Alfonso Soriano and retaining third baseman Aramis Ramirez. A bevy of new pitchers look to shore up Zambrano's iron arm, while Prior and Wood may be healthy at last -- that is, if Kerry Wood can stay away from killer bathtubs.

What They're Saying

Jerry Crasnick: "The state of Soriano's smile come April and May could hinge on his ability to avoid ivy-covered brick facials. He plans to work with third-base coach Mike Quade on the nuances of outfield play in Arizona, but Wrigley Field will pose distinct challenges because of the wind and sun during all of their matinee games."
Feb. 22, 2007
Cubs' outfield still a work in progress

"Besides hiring Rothschild, Piniella has scoured the planet to find the best available people to become Cubs coaches. And who has he come up with to be his bench coach, his right hand man in the dugout? None other than Alan Trammell, the manager of the 119-loss 2003 Detroit Tigers. I am sure that Trammell will be able to help Lou come up with even more ways to lose a game."
FireLouPiniella.net

Alfonso Soriano: "I did not believe, myself, that I had the talent to play the outfield. The second half, I saw (for) myself that I can play outfield. I think I have the talent, I have the condition to play outfield. I know you have to make a lot of adjustments. I want to do the same thing I did in Washington -- just practice a lot."
Feb. 15, 2007
Soriano impresses new teammates by showing up early

The Rundown: Chicago's Offseason Signings