Chicago Cubs Rumors: Lorenzo Cain has three-year offer from the Cubs?

If Lorenzo Cain accepts a rumored three-year offer from the Chicago Cubs, there could be wide-ranging impacts for multiple players on the North Side.

According to Bruce Levine, the Hot Stove could be ready to ignite – at least for the Chicago Cubs. After one of the slowest offseasons in memory, in which the club has been connected to countless free agents and trade targets, there could be something on the horizon.

On 670 AM WSCR Saturday morning, Levine reported the Cubs have a three-year deal on the table for free agent outfielder Lorenzo Cain. With an already-crowded outfield, this is a bit puzzling. But let’s break it down.

Say Cain signs the aforementioned deal. He immediately becomes the team’s starting center fielder – and presumptive leadoff hitter. Jason Heyward is under contract through 2023 in right field. And, by all indications, Kyle Schwarber has left field locked down.

What does all this mean? It points to at least one of Ian Happ or Albert Almora being flipped in a trade. At least, it sure looks that way. Which, honestly, isn’t a huge shocker. The Cubs still need to fill the final spot in the rotation and could benefit from another proven relief arm, as well.

Cain, who turns 32 in April, slashed .299/.356/.445 over the last three years in Kansas City. An elite defender in center field, he brings a lot of positives to the table. He’s one of those guys who offers quite a bit in multiple areas – especially defensively.

Using his wheels

He ranked ninth in UZR, according to Fangraphs – fourth in the American League. He’s heavily reliant on his legs, which is my biggest qualm with this deal. This contract runs through his age-34 campaign and that’s about the time things head south.

If the Cubs had a glaring need in center field, I’d probably be more understanding – even excited. We’re talking about a guy who finished third in American League MVP voting just three years ago. He’s no slouch – no matter how you evaluate his skills.

Cain offers a lot of speed, as well. He swiped 26 bags last year with the Royals and was caught just two times. Again – it all sounds fantastic. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

So who is Theo targeting?

With so much talent still available, it’s hard to rule out the Cubs on any given free agent. The Dodgers and Yankees, usually two of the bigger dogs at the bowl, are focused on the luxury tax this winter. That’s not to say they won’t get involved, but things have been quiet on the coasts.

Yu Darvish, Jake Arrieta, Alex Cobb and Greg Holland are all still available. The Cubs, in theory, could use any of the four as we approach 2018. Does a Cain deal indicate the Cubs are buying low in Cobb in hopes of sneaking in under the tax?

Cubs Insider figures the team has around $38-39 million left. Now, I’m not saying Cain and Cobb couldn’t happen. (Evan’s read on this is really worth your time as he breaks it down well). But, at least in my mind, if you give each player $18 million a year, you’re working with pennies as you fill a backup catcher role and any more relief arms.

Next: Cubs' valuation of Cobb was right on the money

After months of literally nothing, things are going to get interesting very soon. One way or another, Chicago figures to be in the middle of it all as they seek another title.