Chicago Cubs Rumors: MLB experts predict FA activity

6. Jose Abreu (predicted by Anthony Franco and Darragh McDonald of MLBTR)

You knew it was coming. Jose Abreu's name has been connected to the Cubs heavily in recent weeks. There are a few reasons why I personally love Abreu to the Cubs and I'll explain them all quickly. For one, his projected contract of 2 years in the 40MM range is perfect for a team like the Cubs who won't have to worry about any long-term deal being on the books. For two, Abreu in his career at Wrigley Field has absolutely mashed. He has batted over .300 at Wrigley Field over the span of his career and has been a Cub killer every time he has taken a trip to the north side.

Also, It's good news for Cubs fans that Abreu, or probably anybody for that matter, would like to avoid moving his family to another city if at all possible. Lastly, I love the platoon idea with Matt Mervis as that will allow him to transition into everyday MLB life fluidly while not putting too much strain on Abreu having to play every day as he gets older. Abreu is one of those options that define Jed Hoyer's "intelligent spending." Hopefully, he doesn't go back to Jerry Reinsdorf and the White Sox with an offer hoping to be matched in orderto stay on the southside. The Cubs need to pounce on this.

7. Noah Syndergaard (Predicted by Anthony Franco of MLBTR)

Thor to the Cubbies? I don't necessarily mind it if he can A) stay healthy and B) get back to the 2016-2018 form. During that span, he pitched to the tune of a 2.81 ERA and an even more impressive 2.42 FIP. He also recorded 9.9 strikeouts per 9 innings during that stretch. Since then, Syndergaard from 2019 until the present has recorded a 4.17 ERA (still impressive FIP of 3.72) during his time with the New York Mets, Los Angeles Angels, and Philadelphia Phillies.

Syndergaard was a staple of the Mets rotation alongside Jacob deGrom during those prime years in the Big Apple. At only 30 years old, Syndergaard did manage to stay healthy this season after hurling 134.2 innings in total. 2022 was his first complete year back from Tommy John surgery, so if that elbow is ready for a full send, there is a lot of potential there. Personally, I like glancing over the sabermetrics and advanced analytical numbers to measure any upside I can find in a player and I must say I sort of like what I see with Thor here if he does stay healthy. Syndergaard is projected for a 3-year, 36.0MM contract.