The Chicago Cubs have had a relatively quiet offseason after missing out on the playoffs this past campaign. The only notable move the Cubbies have made was firing manager David Ross and hiring Craig Counsell.
However, the good news for Cubs fans is that the team isn’t resting on their laurels from last season and is quietly working in the background to bolster the roster.
On Monday, Jim Bowden of The Athletic said on Foul Territory that the Cubs have made “significant” offers to Jordan Montgomery, Cody Bellinger, Matt Chapman, and Rhys Hoskins.
Interestingly, only one of those free agent offers was to a starting pitcher in Montgomery – one of the best starters remaining in free agency. The Cubs could use the left-handed pitcher, as Marcus Stroman is an unrestricted free agent and probably won’t return to the Windy City.
As things are currently constructed, Chicago’s starting rotation is Justin Steele, Kyle Hendricks, Jameson Taillon, and Drew Smyly.
Steele is a quality potential No. 1 starter, but signing Montgomery, who had an impressive 2.79 ERA in 11 regular season starts with the Rangers, would give them a bonafide No. 2 that they can lean on.
Meanwhile, when it comes to hitting, this isn’t the first time we’ve heard Hoskins attached to the Cubs.
Jon Morosi of MLB.com reported earlier this offseason that Chicago and Hoskins’ representatives remain in contact on a possible free-agent deal. Morosi also added that one-year and multi-year contract proposals have been discussed.
Hoskins would give the Cubs a starting-caliber first baseman or designated hitter, who missed last season with a torn ACL. However, when healthy, Hoskins is a career .242 slugger who has hit 25 or more home runs four times in his career.
As for Bellinger, the Cubs would love to re-sign him after he exploded in the second half en route to hitting .307 with 26 home runs and 97 RBI. In the second half, Bellinger slashed .313/.357/.552 with 17 home runs and 68 RBI.
In addition to his offense, the 28-year-old slugger also provides some versatility in the field as he can play centerfield, first base, or designated hitter. Nonetheless, it will be interesting to see if the Cubs can sign any of these free agents before spring training, as they have second-best odds on FanDuel Sportsbook (+220) to win the NL Central in 2024.
