If you’re not careful how you pronounce his name, it could come out sounding like an arena where only speed metal bands are allowed to play. (I’ll leave that to your imagination). But the Cubs possible pursuit of Japanese outfielder Kosuke Fukudome sounds great–better even than old school Anthrax.

He suffered through injuries last year but still managed to hit .294/.443/.520. In 2006 he had 47 doubles and 31 homers hitting .351/.438/.653. He’s 30 years old.

One description of Fukudome reads like this: “…has for years been considered the most complete and advanced offensive talent in Japanese baseball.” He has 5-tools and uses them all to produce. He’s said to have a great glove and arm and he is patient at the plate. I imagine him between Soriano and D. Lee. Ah, dare to dream.

While I have no idea how much he would cost, there’s finally some very good news–even if it is still just rumor–coming from the North side of town.