It struck me today that I have no idea who will back up Lee at first next season -- now that DeRosa has been traded and Ward and Blanco are unlikely to return. We all remember how difficult it was to replace Lee in 2006 (Phil Nevin, Mabry) and how Lee faded during the '04 stretch run without a capable backup. The Cubs are arguably deeper now, but I still don't have a clear idea on who will or should back up D-Lee.

Granted, I'm sure most of the Cubs' infielders could handle the position, with my first thoughts going to Fontenot or Miles. But I also considered Ramirez and Soriano, and maybe even Milton Bradley (though I don't know much about Bradley to think that he would be a good fit).

It's also possible that the Cubs still intend to sign a backup. Al has suggested Kevin Millar ... ?

Oh, and I'm having a tough time figuring out the "Attach Poll" option, so I'll just do this free form. Who will likely back up Lee next year, and -- within reason -- who would you want to back him up? I say the last point to discourage suggestions of trades that are completely off the wall and/or that have never been even rumored.

Assuming Lee is hurt for an extended period, and not just getting the day off, I'd be curious try Soriano at first. If Lee is out for a game or half a game, my pick would probably be Miles.