Step 1: Understanding the Concept
Hardness in transition metals depends on the number of unpaired d electrons available for metallic bonding.
Step 2: Compare
Cr, V and Co have many unpaired d electrons, so they are hard. Cd has the configuration \(4d^{10}5s^2\) with no unpaired d electrons.
Step 3: Result
Cd has weak metallic bonding and is a soft metal.
Final Answer:
Cd is the soft metal.
\[ \boxed{\text{(D) }\text{Cd}} \]