The Chicago Cubs’ fanbase would undoubtedly be thrilled if this report proves to be true.
A recent report suggests that MLB general managers are considering the Chicago Cubs as a serious dark horse contender in the upcoming Shohei Ohtani free agency sweepstakes this month.
With the conclusion of the World Series, MLB’s attention now turns to the offseason and the commencement of free agency this week. The most significant name on this year’s market is the 2023 MVP candidate, Shohei Ohtani. Despite recently undergoing a second Tommy John surgery due to another tear in the UCL ligament, the two-way star is anticipated to secure a historic contract in the coming weeks.
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On Sunday, USA Today MLB insider Bob Nightengale reported that “The Chicago Cubs are the sleeper pick, according to several GMs, particularly with $43 million coming off their books with the expiration of Jason Heyward’s contract and Marcus Stroman opting out.”
The Chicago Cubs are the sleeper pick, several GMs say, particularly with $43 million coming off their books with the expiration of Jason Heyward’s contract and Marcus Stroman opting out.
The Boston Red Sox, with new GM Craig Breslow, are expected to be heavily considered.
The New York Yankees, New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, San Diego Padres and Texas Rangers will all make strong pushes.
Nightengale also noted that the Cubs do not plan to re-sign Stroman this winter, which implies that the mentioned $43 million will remain available and serves as a solid starting point to offer the three-time All-Star, who is expected to command a contract nearing $500 million.
Nonetheless, Nightengale acknowledged that similar recent reports still point to the Dodgers as the favorites to secure Ohtani in MLB free agency.
There has been speculation that Ohtani prefers to remain on the West Coast, making a move to the East Coast seem less likely. It appears that Chicago would pose the same distance-from-Japan challenge for the former MVP.
If Ohtani were to join the Cubs, it would undoubtedly elevate his public profile to new heights.
