I was talking with family today and they asked me what the kids want for Christmas this year.  First off, it's hard to believe it is already that time of year again.  Second, since my kids hit teenage years, the answer is always the same:  cash!  It started me thinking what my Cubs holiday wishes are for this year though.  We're a bit early, but hey, the stores have all broken out their Christmas stuff already.  Why not get an early start?

My biggest holiday wish for the Cubs has already been answered:  a modernized front office.  I've been wishing for this for many years and it finally came true.  Being the greedy person I am, though, that's just not enough for this holiday season.

I want:

• A huge bat to put in the middle of the lineup.  Pujols would be the king of the town if he came to Chicago, but I'd settle for a Prince.
• Another top of the rotation pitcher is almost required to contend in 2012.  Wilson or Darvish, please!
• Continued heavy investment in the draft.  2011 was a great way to get this ball rolling.  But if we are going to truly build from within, we need to continue making that kind of investment.  Having the sixth pick in the draft doesn't hurt.  Bonus picks for letting some of the free agents go and actually offering arbitration would be excellent, too.
• Continue the modernization of the front office.  For goodness sake, at least buy some video equipment to use in player development down in the farm system!
• Grady Sizemore in our OF.  I realize he may never be what he was before the injuries.  But he'd be a great risk/reward candidate to add to the team.
• "The Cubs Way" to take hold in the majors.  Starlin Castro - I'm looking at you.  Not to mention Byrd, Soriano, Barney, etc.  Walking does not clog bases!
• "The Cubs Way" to take hold in the minors.  I'm not sure to what extent plate discipline can be taught.  But Vitters, Lake and Szczur could be great players if they learn to work some counts in their favor.

I'm sure others are more creative than me.  Let me know what your wishes are in the comments!