Chicago Cubs News: Offseason evaluation, Carlos Correa, and more

There is no question that the Chicago Cubs have improved their roster as the team raised the floor of their expected level of production with the signings of shortstop Dansby Swanson, starting pitcher Jameson Taillon, center fielder Cody Bellinger, relief pitcher Brad Boxberger, and catcher Tucker Barnhart. The signing of free-agent first baseman Eric Hosmer has yet to be announced by the Cubs but it is expected to become official this week.

The Cubs' offseason shouldn't be characterized as a disappointment but it also may not be able to be characterized as a success either. Given the offseason moves between the two teams, the Cubs have likely reached the same level as the Milwaukee Brewers but still remain a level below the St. Louis Cardinals for being labeled as the favorites to win the National League Central division. It also seems unlikely that the Cubs would be considered a legitimate contender for a National League wild-card spot considering the improvements made across the National League.

There is no question that the Cubs have taken a step forward in their effort to return to contention but this is a team that still needs everything to fall in right in order to reach .500. If anything. the offseason has an incomplete feeling to it as the Cubs, to this point, have failed to significantly move the needle.

Carlos Correa still expected to sign with the New York Mets

Despite reports last week that Carlos Correa's representatives have entertained discussions with other teams, the expectation remains that Correa and the New York Mets will be able to come to terms on a reworked deal. At this point, though, it still may be 50-50 in regard to the chances of a deal being completed with perhaps a slight lean toward the Mets' favor. Though, the longer the negotiations drag out, the more likely it is that another team may swoop in.

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