Chicago Cubs showing interest in Colby Rasmus

As names of possible targets for the Chicago Cubs continue to swirl around, another has made its way into the headlines. Colby Rasmus, 28, has been linked to the Cubs, as well as the Baltimore Orioles. Exactly what it is the Cubs are looking for in these free agent signings hasn’t been said. But points of emphasis have been veteran leadership, power, and ability to get on base.

Rasmus could potentially supply that power the Cubs are looking for, but he leaves a lot of questions to be answered. Last season with the Blue Jays, he batted only .225 with a .287 on-base percentage before eventually being benched. In 2013 he was a completely different player however, hitting 22 home runs with a slash of .276/.338/.501.

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It’s also been reported that he and Tony LaRussa had some issues while he was in St. Louis, which Rasmus points to a reason he didn’t live up to his high prospect hype. With Joe Maddon, known as a “players manager”, could the Cubs simply disregard those issues?

The one thing that may be the biggest backing is Maddon’s use of platoons. Arismendy Alcantara had some great moments in his rookie year, and showed unexpected pop from his small frame. Alcantara hit only .190/.215/.350 against right-handed pitching last season. With solid career numbers against righties, Rasmus could be viable in that respect.

There’s been a lot of speculation into targets for the Cubs. Some are legitimate, others pure lunacy. The fans seem to be divided on wanting someone on the “upswing”, when in reality it’s about leadership. If the Cubs can land a mid-level free agent with an upside, that’s great. But what they really need is a player to hit 20 home runs, get on base, and lead this young Cubs team. If he’s in the twilight of his career? That’s fine. That type of player will be cost-effective, won’t block prospects, and in all likelihood will be happy with being a leader.

Add Rasmus to the list, and keep your pencil sharpened because they’ll be more to follow after him.