Chicago Cubs News: Central at stake; Cubs will have their pick

The Chicago Cubs are said to have their pick of free agent starters, regardless of which they choose. Scott Boras has put the Cardinals and the Cubs in a “battle” for Jake Arrieta, stating that it may decide the Central.

The movement of the Hot Stove has been slow for all, including the Chicago Cubs. So much so that a name that assumed that was done with has come back around in Jake Arrieta. Even better? His agent Scott Boras has put the Cardinals up against the Cubs, saying his choice will decide the Central division. I’ll give Boras some credit; he has a flair for the dramatic. But will Arrieta’s decision swing the direction of the division?

With Yu Darvish, Alex Cobb and Arrieta still on the table–the Cubs are going to get their guy. If anything, the wait might get these pitchers a better AAV, but the years might not be what they hoped. Not eating up payroll for six to seven years sounds useful to the Cubs, so it opens the door for all of them to come to Chicago. Will the Cubs get their choice of the three? We think so.

The Cubs are kicking the tires on all available starting pitching, including the Pirates’ Gerrit Cole. Cole would be a solid addition to the Cubs’ staff but would come at a price. Being within the division, the Pirates are going to try and score big. Rumors have included two of the Cubs’ top pitching prospects in Jose Albertos and Alex Lange, and well as catcher Victor Caratini. Seems like a pretty steep price for just two years of Cole.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Will Arrieta’s decision decide the Central?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs will get their man–it’s only a matter of time’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs have shown interest in the Pirates’ Cole’ – Cubbies Crib

‘These SP’s are steady late into game’ – MLB.com

‘Could a team of free agents make the playoffs?’ – ESPN

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