Cubs could eye surprise non-tendered Rangers' World Series hero in offseason twist

When the Chicago Cubs popped up as a potential suitor for Los Angeles Angels' slugging outfielder Jo Adell, it was a reminder that while the Cubs feel comfortable with Owen Caissie having an extended runway in 2026, they likely wouldn't be opposed to the idea of adding a right-handed outfielder with pop to provide some balance for the roster. The Texas Rangers may have just given the Cubs an intriguing option to consider.

Faced with a payroll crunch, the Rangers took the cost-cutting measures in non-tendering outfielder Adolis Garcia and catcher Jonah Heim.

If this were last offseason or the one before, the Cubs undoubtedly would have an interest in Heim, but for now, their catching situation appears to be settled. Garcia, however, may offer the chance for the Cubs to add some power to their roster without having to pay the premium it would cost to sign one of Kyle Tucker, Kyle Schwarber, or Cody Bellinger.

Adolis Garcia could be the buy-low candidate the Cubs target this offseason for Owen Caissie insurance.

Becoming a star during the Rangers' World Series run in 2023, it's hard to believe Garcia's time in Texas is over no more than two years later. Garcia hit 39 home runs during the Rangers' World Series season, but the last two seasons have seen an uptick in his chasing pitches out of the zone, leading to some regression.

Garcia had 19 home runs with the Rangers last season, with an O-Swing % (swinging at pitches outside the strike zone) of 35.1%. For reference, in 2023, that number was at 29.5% for Garcia.

In a scenario where Garcia tinkers with his plate discipline and gets back to being more selective, he is an ideal bounce-back candidate next season.

Of course, if Garcia is looking for a team that can offer him a full-time slot as a starter in right field, the Cubs likely will be ruled out as a suitor. For better or worse, the Cubs appear determined to ensure that Caissie has the same runway in right field that Matt Shaw had at third base last season.

Hopefully, the Cubs learned from that mistake, realizing the risk in handing a starting job to an unproven rookie. Especially in a season where the expectation is for the Cubs to contend for a playoff spot. At the very least, adding Garcia would be a step toward the Cubs improving their power projections for next season.