Rumored Cubs' Winter Meeting target swiped off the board by NL East foe

With the Chicago Cubs looking for another arm to add to the backend of their bullpen, All-Star setup man Robert Suarez was a free agent the Cubs were connected with during the Winter Meetings. It was a surprise connection, considering the cost that would likely come with that contract, but the Cubs seem determined to avoid the pitching shortcomings they avoided during the playoffs last season.

If they do, it won't be tied to Suarez's arrival. The Former San Diego Padres setup man has signed a 3-year deal worth $45 million. Beyond the money involved in Suarez's deal, it would also seem likely that the front office wasn't thrilled about the idea of going to 3 years for a relief pitcher turning 35 in March.

Another rumored Cubs' bullpen target is off the board as Robert Suarez signs with the Atlanta Braves.

On the heels of the Cubs not being motivated to match the contract Devin Williams signed, it's no surprise to see they weren't the top bidder for Suarez. The Cubs seem to be circling Alex Bregman while aiming for an impactful addition to their starting pitcher. Overpaying for a relief pitcher doesn't match that agenda.

In light of Suarez being taken off the market, former Tampa Bay Rays closer Pete Fairbanks remains a target who could make sense for the Cubs. Fairbanks could easily slide into the closer's role for Craig Counsell's bullpen with Daniel Palencia and Phil Maton serving as the setup men. Though if Suarez and Williams are any indication, Fairbanks could receive another contract that is too rich for the Cubs' taste.

A reunion with Brad Keller continues to make sense, as well, but he has received interest from teams as a starting pitcher this offseason. In what is becoming a familiar trend for the Cubs' search for bullpen arms, that would make Keller's contract likely out of their comfort zone.

This is normally the part of the story where we would say the Cubs still have plenty of time to address their needs, and that isn't necessarily wrong. But it's clear the relief market is picking up, and until the Cubs know how they are acquiring their top-of-the-rotation starting pitcher, they may remain on the sidelines.