Former Cub and fan favorite, Reed Johnson, appears to be on his way back to town to try to make the team as backup outfielder. My father-in-law has called him “Speedy” ever since he made that amazing catch in Washington against the Nationals a few seasons ago. I like this move a lot both as a fan who likes Johnson, and as a analyst.

His super hustle and play hard every play demeanor rivals that of Cub center fielder Marlon Byrd. Word on the rumor mills is that if the season started today, Tyler Colvin is going to be the every day right fielder now that Carlos Pena is on board to cover the one bag position. Kosuke Fukudome has just fallen completely out of favor in the Windy City and with good reason. He hasn’t come remotely close to living up to the hype that brought him over from Japan. There have been some rumblings about Fukudome possibly being moved albeit with the Cubs on tap for probably most, if not all of his salary this season. Even if they can get a few minor leaguers…. ok, ok, a bag of peanuts out of Fukudome it should be explored. Alfonso Soriano in left field is a completely different story.

Sam Fuld was involved in the Matt Garza trade last week, and Xavier Nady left due to free agency, so the Cub technically are in the need of that 5th outfielder / utility guy. Johnson’s everyday gaming is all but over, but I see him as a good mentor for the young minor leaguers that are on the verge of making the big show. Johnson made it no secret that he like playing in Chicago, and hopefully this gives him a catch to compete on the team again. I like him as a defensive replacement, and pinch runner late in games, as well as giving players a day off here and there. Having that veteran presence, not named Alfonso Soriano is pretty big too. Marlon Byrd is a good team leader, but having Johnson on the team I think takes the team leadership up on more notch.

I hope after spring training, there’s room for ‘ole Speedy, on the roster.