Chicago Cubs News: Otani’s risk, Darvish or Arrieta?

The situation around Shohei Otani is a complex one, and the Chicago Cubs aren’t being left out. But understanding how it will all work takes a little bit of effort.

Shohei Otani could have waited a year to come to the majors and have gotten paid. The Chicago Cubs international spending money isn’t a lot. But Otani isn’t doing this for the money. Well, he may be a little bit. But it’s about finding the best fit with a team, not the most money. Our William Chase helps to explain it all, while also examining why the financial risk for the Cubs would be worth it.

Do the Cubs need Jake Arrieta or Yu Darvish to compete? That seems to be the question on everyone’s mind. While many think it’s a must that the sign one of the two, that might not be true. Theo Epstein and Jed Hoyer are playing chess, while most fans are playing checkers. While getting a big name pitcher would do good for this year, they’re already thinking about next year. And while the pitching market is thin, there are still some decent options to fill in the gaps.

The list of potential suitors for Arrieta right now is as big as you want to make it. Realistically, there are just a handful of teams that will be willing to bid for his services. The Brewers and Dodgers appear to be the frontrunners. But don’t count out teams like the Giants, Tigers or even the Cubs. And the Orioles? I’m sure they would like to get the man back they let get away. But those might be nothing more than pipe dreams for the O’s.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Dissecting the complexities of Otani’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Team doesn’t need Darvish or Arrieta to win’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs face plenty of competition for Arrieta’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs not one of the five teams to check on Arrieta…yet’ – Cubs Insider

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