Chicago Cubs have two clear paths forward in the coming offseason

Chicago Cubs could add some badly-needed star power this offseason

A loaded free agent class featuring the likes of Carlos Correa, Corey Seager, Javier Baez, Kris Bryant, Trevor Story, Nick Castellanos and a lengthy list of arms could drastically alter the balance of power in baseball. Of course, all of this is totally contingent on the looming CBA negotiations, which could change the game in huge ways.

Regardless of whether or not the designated hitter comes to the National League or where the luxury tax threshold sits, the Chicago Cubs are in a good spot in terms of taking some big swings in free agency.

Reunions with Bryant or Baez can’t necessarily be ruled out, but I wouldn’t hold my breath. If you’re looking at shoring things up at shortstop, there are nearly half-a-dozen high-quality options available – potentially more with opt-outs, etc.

I think the first thing Hoyer does is go after one of those big fish. Correa and Seager are the youngest options – and fit the best with the organization’s long-term projections. After all, you don’t want to go bring in a guy who’s well into his 30s only to watch the young core fail to arrive on time for it to matter.

But these guys might not want any part of what’s transpired in Chicago. It’s not so much the roster overhaul that could scare guys off (although that certainly won’t help) – but there was some very unnecessary drama between longtime stars and the front office following the deadline that’s sure to cause concern with players looking for a new home.