Jim Edmonds...

Dear Jim Edmonds,
I'm struggling here. I'm having a hard time picturing you in a Cubs uniform. And the thought that I won't have to wait long to see the reality, is not helpful. So, I'm writing to you on this public place (if you consider the 5 people who visit my blog public) to ask your help, because I'm now 30 and I can't think that plugging my fingers in my ears and pretending this isn't happening is gonna work for me now.
Let's go back a little, shall we, Mr. Edmonds. I have no doubt that you recall the good times as a Cardinal. The 2 World Series appearances. The win over the Tigers (take THAT Detroit!). You had 5 of the best years a Center Feilder has ever had while you were wearing that Cardinal Red uniform.
So, when you asked for a trade this offseason, I didn't begrudge you that. I thought, 'hey, he's done so much for the franchise. He's been a solid player. By all accounts you were a solid clubhouse presence in St. Louis. If he wants to go, then that's okay.' I was still cheering for you, sir. Padre or not, I want Jim Edmonds to play well. Because I remember the joy of watching you make some of the most amazing catches ever. And I remember watching your uppercut swing connect and moonshot a ball into the right field seats.
And now. You'll be a Cub.
I don't begrudge you that. I don't. I realize it's a business and you have to go where the opportunity is. It's in Chicago. So, yeah, I get it. But. I just can't help but remember the game where Carlos Zambrano threw at you. Twice. And how the fans there hated you. And how you seemed to hate playing there. You played 1st base there a couple times because you were having a little trouble seeing the ball off the bat. I don't bring this up to crap on your situation now. I really don't. But. It just seemed to me that if ever there were hostility between a player and an entire situation (from fanbase to field to other stars on the team), this was it.
But. Here we are. And that's okay.
You're doing what you have to do to keep playing. And I honestly wish you well. I hope you bounce back and the uppercut starts mashing the ball into the bleachers. And I hope the Cubs fans embrace you. And hey, at least now Zambrano won't throw at you (probably. I just don't know about that guy.).
Anyway. Good luck Jim. If you need me, you'll have to yell, because on second thought, fingers in my ears is the way to go.
Sincerly.
Joe