Getting Matt back will be a big boost to the entire lineup card. I won't underestimate his role but more will probably be required if Carpenter doesn't come around at the plate. And soon.

Problem 1 is who can they get? They would have to pay a fortune in bodies and cash to land a top guy, IF one of their teams would even deal. Votto? Freeman? Hard to imagine. If they do make a move, it might be one of those resurrection deals or some shrewd gamble on a guy like the Padres youngster, Solarte. Meanwhile, Reynolds came around with 2 bangers the other day.

It's a tough division. The Cubs, a 3rd place team, would be 1/2 game out in a couple of other divisions.

I don't know. Pittsburgh may not lay down in September this time. And like it or not, Madden and the Cubs are hanging in there.