Should the Chicago Cubs contact free agent Mike Napoli?

Oct 17, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Boston Red Sox first baseman Mike Napoli (12) hits a home run against the Detroit Tigers during the second inning in game five of the American League Championship Series baseball game at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

First off, I would like to dedicate this article to my old pal Billy. Life long Chicago Cubs fan who lived a great life.

It’s pretty obvious that the Cubs and Dioner Navarro will more than likely part ways after the back up catcher had himself a career season. Not only did Navarro step up and deliver in pinch hit situations, but he was a stand out performer both offensively and defensively when he was in the starting lineup.

Now I know I’ve thrown this around in a couple of my posts, but the Cubs will be looking at possible back up catchers. Don’t get me wrong, I love Welington as much as everybody else does but how insane would it be if the Cubs signed Mike Napoli?

Napoli got some attention during last years offseason after he signed a long term deal with the Boston Red Sox which ended up being reduced after the team found out he had a hip problem.

So instead of having him for several more years, Napoli has a chance to pick up the long term contract he was originally supposed to receive in Boston, with someone else.

After the season he had with the World Series champions, I’m almost positive the price tag on this guy will be more than what he agree’d on last season. I know he’s not back up material, but he’s a power hitter this team could definitely use. This signing may be a long shot, probably won’t even happen but Theo and company have to be thinking hard about it.

Napoli could see this as a challenge, just like every other player or manager who has worn this uniform. Plus playing home games at The Friendly Confines is almost every Major League players dream. We all know how much history this place has and being able to become a player who can step up and help our Loveable Losers finally bring that World Series championship back home will be one of the biggest highlights in Major League history.

The Red Sox did submit a qualifying offer to Napoli which needs to be accepted by Monday’s deadline. Right now all thing are pointing to him declining the deal in hopes of picking up a multi-year contract worth more than the $14.1 million he would get if he happens to accept. We all know that this team is still loaded with cash and could sign Napoli with ease.

This year Napoli set career highs in doubles with 38, RBI’s with 92 and plate appearances with 578. He hit .259/.360/.482 across the line with 23 long balls, three of those were grand slams.

With the Red Sox showing interest in both Tim Hudson and Carlos Beltran, this could possibly drive Napoli away depending on the cash they would dish out if they happen to sign both players. You would think that if Napoli left, they would definitely get Jarrod Saltalamacchia a call with a deal ready and waiting for him to sign off on.

The only downside to signing Napoli, is the team would have to give up a first round draft pick. So that could be a problem, as we all know, we’re using those draft picks well.

But on the other hand, we could have a guy on our roster who can not only play behind the plate, but at first base as well.

Now what do you think fellow Cubs fans?

Should the Cubs attempt to sign the right handed power hitter and have that extra pop in the lineup? Or should they just stick with Castillo, find a reasonable back up catcher?

In my opinion, it would be nice to have a guy on this roster other than Anthony Rizzo who can hit over 20 home runs next season. We lost Soriano and could possibly lose Nate Schierholtz (unless there’s something I don’t know) after he had a career year himself.

Just a thought, but I would still love to hear your thoughts on this idea. Sound off in the comment section below.