Chicago Cubs: Choosing between Jake Arrieta and Shohei Otani

TOKYO, JAPAN - NOVEMBER 13: Designated hitter Shohei Ohtani #16 of Japan warms up prior to the international friendly match between Netherlands and Japan at the Tokyo Dome on November 13, 2016 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Masterpress/Getty Images)
TOKYO, JAPAN - NOVEMBER 13: Designated hitter Shohei Ohtani #16 of Japan warms up prior to the international friendly match between Netherlands and Japan at the Tokyo Dome on November 13, 2016 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Masterpress/Getty Images) /
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Chicago Cubs: Otani a long-shot for defending champs

Otani is a 23-year-old outfielder who is also capable of pumping in 100 mph heaters on the mound. Yeah – he does both.

During his five-year career with the Nippon Ham Fighters of the Japan Pacific League, Otani went 41-15 with a 2.56 ERA and 614 strikeouts in 534 innings pitched. Impressive numbers to say the least until you add on his offense side: 47 home runs, 164 RBI and a .287 average in 395 games as an outfielder.

Imagine the Chicago Cubs – with their depth and versatility- signing the most versatile player in the world. It would be a match made in heaven. However, they’d have to let one of the most dominant pitchers in the game slip away into free agency. With that offseason fast approaching, should the Cubs target Jake Arrieta or Shohei Otani?