Banal pun aside, the Hardball Times includes Felix Pie in a list of "The Best Young Center Fielders of 2007." Pie's in a category titled "Good Upside, Close To Prime."

Pie was on pace for a breakout season in 2005 before he injured his ankle, but he rebounded from the injury and a slow start to the 2006 season to put together a solid performance as one of the youngest players in the Pacific Coast League last year. While Pie has great speed and the potential to hit 15 to 20 home runs for the Cubs as soon as this year, his plate discipline is a work in progress. He is a free swinger with the potential for Corey Patterson-like deficiencies in fulfilling potential and reaching base at a reasonable rate.

I can't say I disagree with that assessment. If there is one reason to keep Pie in the minors for at least another half-season, it's plate discipline. Last year's AAA manager and current Cub third base coach Mike Quade commented on this at the Cubs Convention, saying Pie is still very raw at the plate. Defensively, Quade, also the Cubs' outfield coach, said Pie is ready – though not perfect.

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