3 under-the-radar outfielders for the Chicago Cubs to consider

As it currently stands, the Chicago Cubs will likely sport a starting outfield on Opening Day 2022 of Ian Happ, Rafael Ortega and Jason Heyward. While it certainly could be a lot worse, especially considering the emphasis placed on the rotation and links to the top shortstops this offseason, the outfield is still a spot the Cubs can commit relatively low amounts of resources to, and still likely see an upgrade.

Corey Dickerson could shore up the Chicago Cubs outfield on the cheap

Though he certainly wouldn’t be a flashy signing, Corey Dickerson could be an appealing option for a couple of reasons. He would cost the team absolutely nothing, as he suffered through injuries and a slow start in his time with Miami before a solid end to the year with Toronto. The former All-Star also could offer an intriguing upside with his bat.

Dickerson has been an above 100 wRC+ bat in seven of his nine MLB seasons, including a 126 wRC+ season as recently as 2019. He also seemed to get back on track in his 43 games in Toronto, slashing .282/.329/.450 (good for an OPS of .779), over 140 plate appearances. Dickerson isn’t a good defender by any stretch, but his price tag, plus his upside at the plate could make him an attractive bottom of the lineup option.

He’d also give the Cubs another badly-needed insurance option behind Heyward in right field. After all, the veteran outfielder missed the end of the year after a baserunning collision that left him on concussion protocols. Even prior to that injury, it was easily the worst season of Heyward’s career.

Veteran Tommy Pham could be a worthwhile gamble for the Chicago Cubs

Though he once upon a time torched the North Siders as a member of the dreaded Redbirds, Cubs fans should forgive and forget when it comes to Tommy Pham. Though he had a rough season that was marred by inconsistency and a scary collision, he has a much more intriguing upside at the plate than Dickerson does.

Pham still was able to scrape together a 1.5 fWAR season last year and had a 3.4 WAR season with Tampa just a few years ago. Pham is likely to command more in free agency than Dickerson, but it’s hard to imagine him getting any more than a one or two-year deal.

Pham has a great penchant for taking walks (.340 OBP in 2021), and if the Cubs can help him find a power stroke, he’d offer legitimate leadoff potential and would be worth taking a chance on. He’s also got experience at all three outfield options, which would boost David Ross’ club in a way that’s sorely needed heading into 2022.