It can't be a good sign when the Cubs are shipping away question mark talents in return for question mark talents, at least as far as fans hoping for a final big move like a Peavy trade. With buddies Jim Hendry and Orioles GM Andy McPhail probably bored on the phone with each other, the idea of sending project Felix Pie to the Orioles for lefty starter Garrett Olson and a minor league pitching prospect was born.

Pie won't be missed, we just thought he was a perfect pawn for a big package deal for someone like Jake Peavy, not someone we just wanted to move for the sake of moving. Another lefty who has starting experience gives the Cubs options, but little else. Olson started in 26 games for the Orioles last season with a 6.65 ERA. That's not exactly a support plan for the starting rotation.

What it could mean is that it makes Sean Marshall, the big piece in rumors for a Peavy trade, more expendable. Now Marshall's versatility and overall numbers are not something someone like Garrett Olson can erase, but the assumption would be that the Cubs could live with that to have the likes of Peavy in the rotation.

Pie once was the biggest prospect in the Cubs' system--the opening day center fielder last season in fact--but it seems that management has already given up on finding a way to get Pie's average up. He seems to be fine in the minors but barely hit over .200 in his time with the Cubs. With all the other outfield acquisitions made by the Cubs this off-season, signs were pointing towards Pie getting moved. Unfortunately it doesn't seem like the Cubs will get much out of it.

I hope those of you who attended enjoyed the Cubs convention. Spring seems not so far away, let's hope there's something to be excited about.