Cubs GM Jim Hendry has just signed OF Reed Johnson for $1.3 million, believing him to be “the best guy” to serve as center field backup.

Among his features, “Johnson is a career .281 hitter and has a lifetime .308 average against left-handed pitching.”

On the other hand, Johnson missed half the season last year because of an injured back: “He had surgery last April to fix a herniated disc and hit .236 — a sharp drop from his .319 average in 2006.”

But, says Hendry, “He’s an extremely good hitter against left-handed pitching.”

It’s a good thing the Cubs snatched him up, because where else are you going to find another right-handed outfielder who hits extremely well against lefties?

I mean, other than your own bench.

OF Matt Murton is a career .296 hitter and has a lifetime .326 average against left-handed pitching.