Chicago Cubs: The Otani situation, and how the Cubs fit in

(Photo by Masterpress/Getty Images)
(Photo by Masterpress/Getty Images) /
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TOKYO, JAPAN – NOVEMBER 19: Starting pitcher Shohei Otani
TOKYO, JAPAN – NOVEMBER 19: Starting pitcher Shohei Otani /

Like I said before, the Cubs are one of 30 teams in the mix for Otani.  I don’t care what you say; I like those odds, buddy.

Now the Otani contract situation is seemingly overcomplicated.  All you need to know is he’s coming to the majors this offseason, and in doing so, he’s forfeiting a lot of money he would’ve gotten in the 2018-19 offseason.

This is due to MLB’s impossible to understand International free agent rules.  I couldn’t even try to explain to you how they work, all I know is that they’re there and they’re complicated.

Back to the Cubs, what are the chances he could end up in Chicago?  I’m sorry to say this, but I think they’re extremely slim.

If Otani is meant to be both a pitcher and a hitter, wouldn’t he be better off as a DH on his non-pitching days?  Another reason why the NL should have a DH, but that’s a different story for a different day. The Cubs are also limited by the amount of international slot money they have to spend. Honestly, the Cubs have zero chance of getting Otani.