4 designated hitters the Chicago Cubs can target in free agency

Although the Chicago Cubs missed out on Shohei Ohtani, who would have served as the team's DH in 2024, the team is fortunate that there are still many bats that can be had in free agency that add a significant punch to the lineup. Some the Cubs have already been connected to, while others need a better look as they can certainly be had to improve offensive production at the plate. We know the Cubs are planning a big offseason, so nobody should be left off the table in terms of being out of the team's reach. Here are the five DHs I'm targeting in order of how they appeal.

4 Designated Hitters to target - 4. J.D. Martinez

To start, we come to J.D. Martinez, who had a solid bounce-back season with the L.A. Dodgers this year. After what worried many about a dip in power at the plate, Martinez put those doubts to rest as he slashed .271/.321/.572 with 33 home runs and 103 RBI. Becoming a six-time All-Star in the process, Martinez's .301 ISO was the second-highest mark of his career, and his 135 wRC+ in 2023 is something the Cubs need more of in their lineup.

Now 36, Martinez can still hang with the best of them. He's due for a bump in pay after earning only 10.0M with the Dodgers this season, but his production at the plate is worth it. If the Cubs are looking to pack a punch to their lineup, adding him on a one-year deal with a player option for a second, much like we saw with Cody Bellinger last winter, maybe the way to go. He's the perfect bat to slot into the DH spot. Hopefully, the Cubs are willing to take a chance after a little restored confidence at the plate.