^ Agreed. It's so easy to connect/disconnect a mini USB cable, so a cradle is probably overkill. And mini USB cables are plentiful. The only issue is that if you want to synchronize, you have to get one that will support the HTC Hero. Generic ones won't sync, but they'll charge the battery.
Btw, you can get these chargers that will recharge the battery directly, outside of the phone. Really handy if you're someone who uses more than one battery with their phone. Obostore sells one. I bought it along with an order for a 2000mAh Andida battery.