MLB insider hints that wildly unbelievable Cubs rumor might actually be real

A curious rumor that emerged during the World Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays was that the Chicago Cubs were among the teams considered to be a fit for Bo Bichette this offseason. Considering Bichette has only played shortstop (and second base during the World Series), the Cubs being a suitor didn't make much sense, considering they already have Dansby Swanson and Nico Hoerner in the middle of their infield.

MLB Network's Jon Morosi added some context to Bichette's free agency that, in theory, could point to the Cubs being among the teams to check in on the 27-year-old shortstop. Reporting from the GM meetings, Morosi notes that several teams have expressed interest in Bichette, even teams that already have an established shortstop on their roster.

The impression is that Bichette, if signed by one of those teams, would either play second base or third base.

Bo Bichette's free agency update does suggest Cubs could be involved, but it still feels like a reach.

If the Cubs are looking for an upgrade to their starting lineup this offseason, third base is the only option. While one report suggests the Cubs want a corner outfielder, it's from Bob Nightengale--who might not be the most reliable source. Entering the 2026 season, it would seem that the Cubs are more comfortable with an outfielder/designated hitter plan for their lineup that includes Seiya Suzuki and Owen Caissie than Matt Shaw at third base.

That's nothing against Shaw, just a reminder that his second-half struggles could open the door for the Cubs to find offensive improvement through third base. As it stands, the free-agent options for the Cubs would be Alex Bregman or Eugenio Suarez. In theory, the Cubs could have "interest" in Bichette to play third base as a way to create leverage for their potential talks with Bregman or Suarez. That feels more likely than the Cubs being interested in playing a below-average defensive player at an entirely new position.

There's also the expectation that Bichette's deal could be larger than the seven-year deal Swanson signed with the Cubs, worth $177MM. Until proven otherwise, the sense is that the Cubs aren't willing to make lucrative long-term commitments like they made with Swanson. If there is an exception this offseason, it would have been for Kyle Tucker, but they are more than willing to let him sign elsewhere.