Reader Dan writes:

Well, I can’t even say that it was “good while it lasted,” as this season’s Cubs team completely gasped and sputtered its way into the playoffs. Then, when in the playoffs, did absolutely N-O-T-H-I-N-G (you are excused Mr. Zambrano).

Is it too soon to make a wish list/hoped for recommendations for next season?

* EVERYONE must practice bunting. During Spring Training, EVERYONE must successfully be able to lay down a bunt, or be subject to a fine of not less then $1,000.00 (for charity) per missed bunt opportunity. 3 or more missed bunts/foul outs/pop out bunts, may lead to being cut by the team.

* MOVE Soriano from the Lead-Off spot. A Lead-Off Homer!!! Exciting!!! And NOT CONSISTENT. More often then not, Soriano will swing at BALLS that bounce twice before reaching home plate…move him to…oh, let’s say the #8 spot. You want this guy swinging for the fences with guys (potentially) on base if he’s hitting in the #3 or #4 spot? Me neither.

* SIGN A-Rod.

* DUMP Ramirez. His defense was DOWN this season. His LAZINESS remained evident when running to first on any hit. Where was he in the post-season? The Dominican Republic? Who was the clown wearing his jersey who contributed nothing, zero, zilch? A-Rod would look GREAT in Cubs pinstripes at 3rd…and I’m thinking no less then 40 HRS a season, and well over 100 RBI’s…IF guys get on base ahead of him (see 1st bullet point).

* PLATE DISCIPLINE. Get a chalk board and draw out the strike zone…point out that balls that end up in the dirt are for the most part UNHITTABLE and should be laid off. The umpires refer to them in the count as “balls.” Explain that a batter can work the count to 3 balls and 2 strikes…a batter does NOT go up to the plate DOWN 0-2 (got that Soriano?!). Put in a DVD of the Cleveland Indians 2007 playoff appearance (or Boston vs. Angels) against the Yankees. Point out the BUNTING, and working the count that is evident.

* Do NOT “celebrate” or otherwise recognize 100 years of futility next season.