Cubs Sign Jim Edmonds

By Benjy Lipsman in News on May 15, 2008 3:00PM

In need of left-handed hitting in their lineup, the Cubs signed Jim Edmonds on Wednesday after the 38-year old outfielder cleared waivers. Edmonds had been released by the San Diego Padres last week after getting off to a slow start this season, in part due to a calf injury from spring training.

The Cubs are hoping that the former All-Star can contribute by sharing duties in center field and providing his lefty bat a couple times a week. And with San Diego picking up the bulk of his salary, the Cubs only needed to spend the prorated amount of the league minimum salary to add him to their roster.

And what do Cubs fans think of the move? Edmonds was among the most reviled opponents for the fans at Wrigley during his time with the Cardinals. Can they overcome those feelings? Or will the fans reflexively boo when they hear his name on the PA system? If comments on the Cubs' message board are any indication, they haven't yet warmed up to the idea of Edmonds in pinstripes. If he produces, they may forgive and forget. If he doesn't, Edmonds may be in for a long summer in center field.

AP File Photo/Morry Gash