Chicago Cubs News: Winter Meetings Day 2, Rumors, and more

The Chicago Cubs were the talk of the night at the Major League Baseball Winter Meetings as multiple reports surfaced regarding team chairman Tom Ricketts giving a "green light" to team president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer to spend aggressively in free agency this offseason in order for the team to return to contention in 2023.

To that end, Hoyer did confirm while speaking with reporters that the team does have several offers extended to free agents.

"“We have a lot of offers out there and we’ll continue to make offers,” Hoyer said at the Meetings in San Diego. “Whether things come to fruition or not, you never quite know."

- NBC Sports Chicago

At the bare minimum, the sense of urgency generating by the Cubs' front office is much different than it has been in recent years. Whether or not the urgency transforms to the team signing impact free agents this offseason remains to be seen.

Chicago Cubs Rumors from Winter Meetings Day 2

The Chicago Cubs have engaged in trade discussions with the Oakland Athletics centering around gold-glove

Tom Ricketts may have given his final approval to Jed Hoyer to allow for aggressive spending this offseason.

A scenario exists where the Cubs sign multiple free-agent shortstops this offseason.

The Cubs have had recent meetings with Carlos Correa and Xander Bogaerts.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have a serious interest in Xander Bogaerts.

Japanese free-agent starting pitcher Kodai Senga may be nearing a decision.

The Cubs remain in the mix for free-agent starting pitcher Jameson Taillon.

MLB Rumors from Winter Meetings Day 2

Free-agent shortstop Trea Turner signed a 11-year, $300MM contract with the Philadelphia Phillies.

Free-agent starting pitcher Justin Verlander signed a 2-year, $86MM contract with the New York Mets.

The San Diego Padres are not expected to pursue any of the three remaining top free-agent shortstops after missing on Trea Turner.

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Tampa Bay Rays have an interest in former National League Central foe, Andrew McCutchen.

Free-agent starting pitcher, and possible Cubs' target, Andrew Heaney is seeking a four-year contract offer.