Chicago Cubs: Is Howie Kendrick a prospective offseason target?

Washington Nationals infielder Howie Kendrick is chasing a title this month – and might be the perfect addition for the Chicago Cubs this offseason.

It’s still strange to watch postseason baseball that doesn’t include the Chicago Cubs. Last year’s Wild Card game loss helps, I guess, given I watched the Division and Championship Series – as well as the Fall Classic – without the team. But, still, it’s a new look – and I don’t particularly care for it.

It has, however, given me plenty of time to watch guys playing in October – focusing, in particular, on the names I know could be hitting the open market once the postseason draws to a close. Given the Cubs’ glaring hole at second base, one guy I’m particularly interested in is Howie Kendrick.

Now, I know – it’s not often you see me clamoring for a 36-year-old player. But here we are. Chicago lacked professional at-bats for much of the year. Second base was little more than an offensive black hole in 2019 and if the team wants to compete next year, it has to change.

Enter Kendrick.

The 2002 tenth-round pick turned in a monster season under former Cubs bench Coach Dave Martinez in D.C. this year, getting on base at a monster .392 clip in 121 games. His .966 OPS and 142 OPS+ both set career-highs for the veteran, who would do a lot for this Chicago lineup.