Chicago Cubs: Five reasons to care about this year’s World Series

Chicago Cubs: There are free agents to watch

The Chicago Cubs have several holes to fill on their roster this offseason, and these two clubs might have some options via free agency.

Let’s start with the Nationals. Anthony Rendon is the big prize this offseason, but it’s unlikely that the Cubs will pursue him, especially since they already have a third baseman in Kris Bryant. It’s also unlikely that the Cubs will pursue starting pitcher Stephen Strasburg should he opt out of the rest of his contract.

The more likely option is veteran Howie Kendrick, who is coming off one of the best seasons of his career in which he hit .344 with an OPS of .966. Kendrick could fit in at second base, a spot where the Cubs didn’t get much production in 2019. Given that he’s 36 years old, the Cubs might be able to bring Kendrick in on a short-term deal. Asdrubal Cabrera and Brian Dozier are also soon-to-be free agent second basemen on the Nationals’ roster.

In the outfield, Adam Eaton could be worth a look if the Nationals don’t pick up his team option. As far as relief pitching, there may be a couple of bullpen options to look at. Daniel Hudson had a nice second half out of the bullpen, while closer Sean Doolittle will be a free agent if the club doesn’t pick up his option.

On the Astros, it’s all about pitching. Gerrit Cole is a free agent and will make a ridiculous amount of money this offseason, but it won’t be from the Cubs. Wade Miley would be a more affordable option as a starting pitcher. It’s also possible that the Cubs will pursue one or more of the Astros’ free agent relievers, which include Joe Smith and Will Harris, who both had ERAs under 2.00 this year. Former Cubs closer Hector Rondon is also a free agent.

Will any of these players be in a Cubs uniform next season? We don’t know, though the World Series will give fans a chance to check these players out.