3 players in the World Series who’d be perfect on the 2022 Chicago Cubs

We’re deep into this year’s Fall Classic – with a compelling matchup between the resilient Atlanta Braves and the oft-loathed Houston Astros. Atlanta has overcome countless injuries – both in the regular season and postseason and are a real feel-good story.

The Astros, on the other hand, are out to earn the nation’s respect back and some may say everything’s on the line for them. Both teams will have a handful of players set to become free agents after this season and the Chicago Cubs should be taking a close look at a few of them this offseason.

The first name is Eddie Rosario. Rosario was acquired from Cleveland at the deadline and has really come alive for this Atlanta offense. The left-handed-hitting outfielder has hit .271 with a .903 OPS since coming over from Cleveland and has been a huge spark on this incredible run for the Braves.

Rosario has spent seven seasons in the league, with a career average of .275 and OPS of .782. He’s currently on a one-year deal for $8 million and is set to become a free agent at the end of the season. The veteran outfielder hits for average and has showcased his clutch gene in the postseason. He fits the mold for the new type of player the Cubs want to bring in. He’ll be similar in price to Joc Pederson last season and would bring in championship DNA to a clubhouse that needs to restock in that area.

The next name is one fans may recognize in Martin Maldonado. Now, I know that’s not a sexy name by any means but he could be a great asset. The Cubs traded Mike Montgomery for Maldonado back in 2019 and he spent half a season with the team. The backstop has spent 11 years in the league and is currently a member of the Astros. He’s been part of four postseason times, playing in 11 series total and two World Series.

His numbers aren’t the best, batting .212 with a .693 OPS during his career. However, he would not be brought in for his bat but for his experience and defensive ability. He won a Gold Glove back in 2017 and is a reliable backstop at a cheap price (currently making $3.5 million). With Willson Contreras’ future with the Cubs in question, the team needs to have a backup (literally) plan. Maldonado has championship experience and a strong track record to bring the Cubs what they need for the time being.

Chicago Cubs would be taking a big swing with a Carlos Correa pursuit

The last name will no doubt be one of the most sought after free agents in the market in Carlos Correa. The 2015 American League Rookie of the Year, two-time All-Star and World Series champion is set to become a free agent after this season. The Cubs no doubt need to make a splash in the middle infield and Correa seems like a perfect fit. With a career average of .277 and OPS of .837, Correa is another example of the type of player the Cubs want to start to bring in.

Correa has postseason experience, the ability to hit for average and get on base and could bring Chicago much of what it’s missing. His market value is going to be amongst the likes of Francisco Lindor, Mookie Betts and Nolan Arenado but the Cubs will have the money to spend and at 27 years old, this is the type of player to break the bank on.

The pressure is on for Jed Hoyer this offseason and what better what to start by cherry picking some names from two current championship rosters. Bringing in that championship DNA is underrated and would be a smart thing for this front office to do.