Chicago Cubs: Top three realistic free agent acquisitions this offseason

Chicago Cubs: Kendrick showing no signs of slowing down

While he had an amazing 2019 season, many teams will probably refrain from trying to sign Howie Kendrick this free agency. Why? He turns 37 next July and his time in the bigs might be coming to an end very shortly. However, Kendrick offers versatility and a grind that would be hard to find anywhere else.

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In his 2019 season, Kendrick spent most of his time coming off the bench, and primarily playing the infield. Off the bench, Kendrick hit .414 which proved that he could come in clutch, and hustled when needed. Even when he saw regular playing time, Kendrick kept his average high. On the year, the 36-year old veteran hit .344 boosting an already powerful Nationals offense.

Not only did he produce offensively, but Kendrick produced defensively. Throughout 2019, he played first base, second base, third base and the outfield. This kind of versatility is key for any team to win games. In the Cubs case, if they end up parting ways with Ben Zobrist, which seems to be likely, Kendrick would be able to fill that whole in the roster.

Even with his presence in the regular season, nobody would have imagined the impact he would make in the postseason. On Monday night against the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 3 of the National League Championship Series, Kendrick went 3-for-4. He had three doubles and three RBIs which helped lead the team to victory. Now, the Nationals are one win away from their first World Series ever.

Kendrick is a career .294 hitter, yet hit a career-high .344 in 2019 despite his age. Regardless of what others might think, I think there is still a spark in him and that spark would greatly benefit the Cubs.