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What we know and don't know about Chicago Cubs

An early read on Cubs camp tea leaves

By Paul Sullivan | Tribune reporter

March 3, 2009

MESA, Ariz. — With the Cactus League schedule in full swing, things are beginning to fall into place.

Here are some things we know and don't know so far about the Cubs:

We don't know … Whether Milton Bradley will survive the season in one piece.

Bradley has had only one plate appearance while his sore left quad heals. Manager Lou Piniella said Monday he expects Bradley to DH in a split-squad game Wednesday against Cleveland in Goodyear, Ariz.

Does it matter that Bradley is not getting any playing time in Cactus League games?

"It does matter," Piniella said. "Because sooner or later you're going to have to get some at-bats. But right now, it's the 2nd of March."

Should Cubs fans be wondering if the $30 million free agent will be able to play 130 or more games if he's already sitting with a sore quad?

"Let's judge this thing April 6," Piniella said. "Let's not judge this on spring training. Let's give this young man every opportunity to get 100 percent and get him strong. That's what we use spring training for."

We do know … Just because the Jake Peavy talks are dormant doesn't mean they're dead.

"We've got to prepare with what we have, and obviously you don't know if something like that is going to happen," Piniella said. "So I think it would be wise to not count on him."

But Piniella didn't rule out the possibility. The Cubs are waiting for their ownership situation to be settled before deciding whether to re-examine the deal.

"Anything is possible," Piniella said.

We don't know … Who the backup catcher will be.

With Geovany Soto gone to the World Baseball Classic, Paul Bako and Koyie Hill will get plenty of chances to battle for the vacancy as his backup. Bako is hitless in five at-bats, while Hill is 2-for-7 with two RBIs. Though Bako signed for $725,000 and has more major-league experience, the Cubs don't have to pay the entire salary if he doesn't make the final cut. Hill knows the staff better.

We do know … Chad Fox is a dark horse for the final bullpen spot.

Fox made his comeback last spring after two years of retirement but tore a triceps muscle early and spent the entire season rehabbing. He has looked impressive in two spring outings and appears to be back to his old form.

We don't know … If Mike Fontenot can back up at third base.

Fontenot got only a couple of chances at third Sunday but will get more. Piniella said he'd get the first chance at being Aramis Ramirez's backup. "I've played there before," Fontenot said. "It's just about getting reps there and being comfortable."

psullivan@tribune.com