Chicago Cubs: Is Howie Kendrick a prospective offseason target?

Chicago Cubs: Time to add some grit to the clubhouse in 2020

Given the team has guys like Ian Happ and David Bote (not to mention highly-touted prospect Nico Hoerner) in the mix at second, as well – Kendrick could fit perfectly as a guy who sees some time at second and third – and spells Rizzo at first from time to time. He knows his role – and that accepting it has played a huge role in his career year.

"“I’m not an everyday guy anymore and I know that and [Davey Martinez] knows and I’m not going to complain one bit about the way I’ve been used,” Kendrick told NBC Sports Washington last month. “When I play, I play. When I don’t, I’m ready to play and go in the game and I’ve kind of streamlined that process a little more, I’ve figured out, being in the National League how to prepare myself and be ready.”"

Coming off the bench this season, Kendrick hit .414 – including a .361/.415/.611 line in 41 plate appearances as a pinch hitter. It’s that type of grind-it-out mentality that makes me think he’d be a perfect fit with the Cubs – regardless of who’s managing the team moving forward.

We’re talking about a guy who knows what’s at stake – his last few go-rounds in Major League Baseball. Yet to win a ring, he’ll undoubtedly want a shot with a contender, where he can bring his 122 career postseason plate appearances and invaluable October experience, in hopes of closing his career on a high note.