Chicago Cubs: Theo Epstein still has a chance to score big

Alex Cobb: 12-10, 3.66 ERA, 128 SO, 1.221 WHIP

It seemed like a sure thing at the beginning of the offseason that the Cubs would land Alex Cobb. It wasn’t as much a matter of if, but when. But here we are in the second week of January, and the Cubs still haven’t signed him. But Joe Maddon isn’t upset with him, as he knows Cobb is simply trying to do what’s best for his family. So if he’s not looking for an exorbitant amount of money, what is he looking for?

It seems as if no one wants to be the pitcher that sets the market. And that could be the reason that Cobb is waiting back to see what happens with Arrieta, Darvish or even Lance Lynn. The Cubs have already added Tyler Chatwood on a three-year, $38 million deal. It was rumored the Cubs offered Cobb similar deal, but he balked at it. With Maddon and former pitching coach Jim Hickey, this seemed like a sure thing. Now, not so much.

With spring training just over a month away, Cobb might have to make a decision soon. The Cubs, Brewers, and Twins have all been linked to Cobb. And from what some have surmised? It will be the…Philadelphia Phillies? I can’t see that being the case. Although at this point, it’s anybody’s guess.