Chicago Cubs: Would landing Shohei Ohtani stop pursuit of Bryce Harper?

Often times, we get so wrapped up in the current situation, we fail to look at the future. For the Chicago Cubs, a chance to sign Shohei Ohtani is within their reach. But if they do it, could this prevent them from pursuing Bryce Harper next year?

The Chicago Cubs are one of the seven teams left in the running for Shohei Ohtani. The Angels, Rangers, Dodgers, Giants, Mariners, Padres and Cubs. After the Yankees – the initial frontrunner – were reportedly told they were out because they were a large market. I don’t want to poke the bear or anything, but I’m pretty sure Chicago (supports two professional baseball teams) is a large market. Just saying.

But that aside, if the Cubs pitch to Ohtani in person is good enough to land the Japanese superstar? Those who were told they were crazy because they weren’t the Yankees will have some redemption.

Now, this post isn’t to get into who or what Ohtani could mean to the Cubs next season. Will he pitch? Will he hit? Maybe he’s going to do both. If the Cubs land Ohtani, could it affect their pursuit of free agent Bryce Harper after next season?