Chances of the Cubs signing these free agents: Rhys Hoskins - High
Rhys Hoskins has been linked to the Cubs all winter. But with Scott Boras holding all the cards (he's the agent for not only Hoskins, but also Bellinger) - things have been slow to play out. Given the amount of needs this team has, Chicago isn't about to overpay, especially for a guy coming off an injury - regardless of how good a fit he may be.
Hoskins was a longtime staple in Philadelphia before a knee injury cost him his entire 2023 season. Now, looking to re-establish himself as a quality power bat, the Cubs could give him the same platform they offered Bellinger in 2023 - a short-term 'prove it' deal that could allow him to hit free agency again soon.
After the disastrous Eric Hosmer and Trey Mancini signings from a year ago, Hoskins should bring a relative degree of certainty at first - and he likely won't break the back, allowing Chicago to address the pitching staff and, hopefully, make a run at bringing back Bellinger, too. There's been so much smoke here that it's hard to believe the two sides don't get a deal done.