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Chicago Cubs: Moves that make sense for the Cubs
#4 Let Almora play center
The youth moment is Chicago needs to continue, and Albert Almora Jr. needs to play. In his 47 games this year, he showed moments of hitting well and playing defense. His contract is very team friendly, making the risk very small.
It hurts me to say these things. I love Dexter Fowler as a Chicago Cub. He gets on base and starts the offensive engine. However, he was paid $8 million this year and declined his option for 2017. He will get paid by a team somewhere, and deserves it.
Paying Fowler, the $13+ million contract he desires means fewer funds to address the bullpen and offering players, like Kris Bryant, to long-term contracts.