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Chicago Cubs could find their answer at second base in free agency
Chicago Cubs: His NLDS grand slam is just his latest performance
One of the most sought-after second basemen Howie Kendrick would be an excellent addition to the Cubs lineup. This season in 121 games with the Nationals he slashed .344/.395/.572 with 17 homers, 142 OPS+, .966 OPS, 146 wRC+ (career-high) and accumulated 2.9 fWAR.
Kendrick is 36, but shows no signs of slowing down. He is a career .294/.337/.431 hitter in 1,596 career regular season games. The question is what other teams offer him and if Kendrick would want a more defined role than a role on the Cubs, a situation in which Hoerner will be part of the equation sooner or later. Despite the very good season it is hard to imagine him costing a ton of money but he will probably make more than a number of other free agent second basemen next year.
There is no doubt Kendrick would improve this lineup in many ways. A veteran of his caliber can add so much to this team. If Theo Epstein wants to go out and bring in an impact bat that is affordable, Kendrick is a good option regardless of what position he plays.