Ranking 8 Cubs pending free agents by likelihood of them re-signing

The Cubs have a number of guys set to hit the open market, but there's a chance more than a couple stick around, either by re-signing or via contract options.

Pittsburgh Pirates v Chicago Cubs
Pittsburgh Pirates v Chicago Cubs | Michael Reaves/GettyImages
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Ranking Cubs free agents based on likelihood of re-signing: #1 - Kyle Hendricks

Just recently, we heard that the Cubs bringing back Kyle Hendricks was a 'foregone conclusion' given how the veteran has pitched since his return from 2022 shoulder surgery. Given his relationship with David Ross and the team's need of consistency and depth in the rotation, this is a slam dunk.

The last remaining member of Chicago's 2016 World Series championship team isn't what he was at his peak, but is still very capable of keeping opposing lineups off balance every five days. His WHIP and FIP are both right in line with his career marks this year and he's seemingly gotten past the home run woes that plagued him in 2021 and 2022.

Who knows if 2024 will be his last season on the North Side. He's spent his entire big league career with the Cubs and may be one of the rare birds that manages to stick with one club until he hangs up his spikes. One of the most underrated Cubs pitchers ever, though, will surely be back next year.

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