Chicago Cubs News: Looking at key Cubs who will be free agents

Theo Epstein - Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
Theo Epstein - Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
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(Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
(Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Chicago Cubs: There are not a ton of guys on the infield who will be free agents, and prospects will likely replace some as they move forward.

Jason Kipnis (2B)

The former Cleveland Indians All-Star was a reliable pickup for the Cubs on a minor league deal in 2020. He hit .237/.341/.404 in 44 games. He started 38 games at second based and was a very reliable defender. Guessing Kipnis is probably gone in 2021, so Nico Hoerner can get more playing time and develop while he can find another starting opportunity with another team. He was never a long-term solution at second, but more as a stabilizer/placeholder in 2020.

Josh Phegley (C)

Another veteran brought in on a Minor League deal to help solidify some depth at the catcher position. He played in 11 games as a Cub in 2020 and went 1/16 with a home run and two RBI. He was DFA in late August. With the top two catchers in Willson Contreras and Victor Caratini looking solidified for the future and prospects like Miguel Amaya waiting to move his way up through the system, there is no spot on the Cubs for a light-hitting veteran.

Hernan Perez (UTL)

The longtime Milwaukee Brewer spent most of his Cubs tenure in South Bend and was DFA back in early September after playing just three games with the MLB club. He remained with the organization throughout the season and was never released. Doubt we see Perez wear a Cubs uniform again.

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