Chicago Cubs News: Rafael Devers avoids arbitration, Hosmer, and more

There has been an uptick in rumors linking the Chicago Cubs to Boston Red Sox star third baseman Rafael Devers as it would seem that Devers is destined to reach free agency after the 2023 Major League Baseball season. The belief that Devers will reach free agency next offseason has been based on the idea that there is tension between the Red Sox and their 26-year-old third baseman. The Red Sox have seen a plethora of their superstar players leave over the course of recent years and there had been growing speculation that the team may look to trade Devers before he walks for nothing at the end of the year.

In a sign that talks about a possible extension may be progressing between the Red Sox and Devers, the two sides agreed to a one-year deal worth $17.5MM to avoid arbitration.

The agreement between the Red Sox and Devers certainly shows that the two sides appear to be finding common ground on certain matters. The agreement also shows as a reminder as to why teams like the Cubs shouldn't count on players like Devers being available next offseason when they are scheduled to become free agents.

Is Eric Hosmer a character concern for the Chicago Cubs' clubhouse?

As the Chicago Cubs' signing of veteran first baseman Eric Hosmer inches closer to becoming official, there have been questions about Hosmer's character surfacing on Twitter. The questions appear to be derived from Padres' fans feeling Hosmer did not live up to the 8-year, $144MM contract that he signed with the team in 2018 as opposed to anything from Hosmer's actual teammates.

Former Boston Red Sox reliever Matt Strahm had this to say about Hosmer last season while speaking to Rob Bradford.

"“I’ve been fortunate enough to be on his team every season I’ve been in the big leagues,” Strahm told Bradford. “I’ve been with three different organizations and shared the field with him every year. His presence, from what I’ve experienced, is just unmatched with just his professionalism. And just how he carries himself, he’s also a very good vocal leader as well as lead by example.” Strahm added: “He is what everyone says he is. He’s been the glue in every clubhouse that I’ve been in.” "

- Matt Strahm via Gio Rivera, NESN

Former Chicago Cubs center fielder Rafael Ortega signs with Yankees

After failing to seize his opportunity at the Major League level with the Chicago Cubs last season, former Chicago Cubs center fielder Rafael Ortega is joining the New York Yankees.