Cubs might fix trade deadline blunder with perfect Winter Meetings do-over

Tatsuya Imai seemingly has emerged as the preferred target for the Chicago Cubs in free agency, but that doesn't mean the Cubs aren't exploring trade possibilities before reaching a long-term deal with Imai. Among the rumors to emerge from the first day of the Winter Meetings is that the Washington Nationals are expected to trade MacKenzie Gore this offseason.

Gore was among the cost-controlled starting pitchers that the Cubs tried to add at the deadline, but they balked at the Nationals' asking price. USA Today's Bob Nightengale reports that the early word from Orlander is that Gore will be traded this offseason, and that the Nationals will also move shortstop CJ Abrams.

The Cubs certainly could use a player like Abrams in their starting lineup, but considering what a trade would cost them, it doesn't make sense for Chicago to be involved in the bidding.

Cubs Rumors: MacKenzie Gore expected to be traded this offseason.

Gore, however, would be a clear answer for the Cubs' search for a top-of-the-rotation arm. As was the case with the Toronto Blue Jays signing Dylan Cease to a deal worth over $200 million, teams are emphasizing a pitcher's ability to miss bats, regardless of what their ERA may be.

Gore has a career ERA of 4.19, including a 4.17 mark last season, but offers some of the best swing-and-miss stuff of any pitcher available this offseason. In just under 160 innings pitched last season, Gore struck out over 27% of the hitters he faced. Between the Cubs' pitching infrastructure and playing in front of a defense that has several Gold Glovers, there would also be a belief that Gore could finally reach his ceiling away from Washington.

With two years of control, even with Gore struggling in the second half last year, a trade for him would deplete the top of the Cubs' farm system. The Nationals had interest in Matt Shaw at the deadline, and if the Cubs were to make the trade, they could use the money saved from not paying for a free-agent starting pitcher on Alex Bregman.

Even with several rumors suggesting the Cubs are aiming high in their pursuits this offseason, fans will need to see a move happen before they buy the talk. Whether it's Imai or Gore, the Cubs need to connect on a big swing this offseason. Otherwise, the disappointment that was evident at the deadline will pale in comparison to this offseason.