Chicago Cubs should target Zack Wheeler in free agency

With the Chicago Cubs looking to make changes to the rotation, there are intriguing names in free agency that could grab Theo Epstein’s attention.

One of the many questions being asked this offseason is how the Chicago Cubs will upgrade their pitching rotation for 2020. We know that Kyle Hendricks, Yu Darvish and Jon Lester will be sticking around baring some crazy move or unfortunate career setback. Chicago Tribune’s Mark Gonzalez reports that the Cubs elected to pick up Jose Quintana’s option for 2020, which means the club has have four slots taken in the Opening Week rotation.

One thing seems certain is that they will be looking to replace Cole Hamels‘ spot since he probably will not be back. Plus despite the Cubs picking up Quintana’s option, there could be an attempt to trade him offseason. Regardless there will be changes to the rotation for 2020 however big or small they might be.

One intriguing option for Theo Epstein to explore is veteran righty Zack Wheeler, who will be a free agent if he indeed declines a one-year, $18 million qualifying offer. Wheeler, 29, has spent his entire MLB career with the Mets since making his debut in 2013. While one might bring up injury issues in his career as a point of concern, the recent body of work shows that he is still a very valuable arm and one that will generate interest.