All the free agency predictions I've seen published seem to be calling for a relatively cheap deal for the Melk Man - 1 yr/4-7 million, or 2 for 10-15. Given our outfield instability and need for top of the order bats, is he worth a look?

A switch hitter batting either 2nd or 4th and playing a decent LF sounds very good - and if the price and time commitment between Cabrera and Ludwick is similar (as it probably will be), I think I'd rather take a chance on Melky. Even with the 'roid issue, I still think Cabrera is a better bet to produce over the next couple of seasons than Ludwick. Coupled with a new lead-off hitter, we'd have a very effective lineup.

How much will the suspension affect his game? Even if it doesn't, is it worth signing him for the message it might send? People seemed to forget about Braun's transgressions pretty quickly, and his numbers didn't fall even a bit. Obviously they aren't the same tier of player, but is the comparison valid?