Ian Stewart was epically bad this year. His .627 OPS surpasses only the .621 OPS we've gotten from Luis Valmalo as his replacement. Some folks are happy to point out the nice return the Rockies have gotten on this deal.

But what if Stewart was damaged goods? Stewart had surgery last month to fix his aching hand, and, while he's a non-tender candidate, his salary for 2013 would project around 2.5 million. Even if the Cubs had to eat it, it wouldn't hurt too much.

One thing the front office will have to weigh when making this decision is the lack of other options at the hot corner. David Wright's option is a lock to be picked up, the Padres want a "Mat Latos" type haul for Chase Headley and it's looking like Josh Vitters needs more minor league seasoning. That leaves Stewart, and possibly Kevin Youkilis, Scott Rolen or Placido Polanco as available options.