MLB Updates: Chicago Cubs’ Top Targets, Amidst Prolonged Cody Bellinger Talks

Scott Boras and the Chicago Cubs are currently in the world’s longest staring contest. With neither side willing to step down from their demands regarding Cody Bellinger, the Cubs’ offseason is getting affected. Last year the Cubbies missed the playoffs by just one win so a little investment can take the team to glory. But surprisingly the North Siders have not made any signings yet! Things are looking really shaky for the Chi-Town squad. Luckily for them, there are still a few affordable stars left in the market.

So while the Cody Bellinger talks stretch themselves out, the Cubs can take a punt on these stars. With fascinating stories associated with them, these players can become a huge part of the Cubs’ push for another World Series. Perhaps a “reunion” or two could bring life back to this Windy City franchise.

Big hits, reunions, and other possible scenarios for the Chicago Cubs

FanSided recently posted a list of potential targets for the Chicago-based team. The Cubs have needed a big hitter for a long time, at the same time, a reliever could also help their case. But with players like Rhys Hoskins and Aroldis Chapman still in the market, things look good for the Cubs. 

Aroldis Chapman recently won his second World Series title with the Texas Rangers. His first? In 2016 with the Chicago Cubs. There’s a clear history here and the Cubs might love this. Though Chapman isn’t as strong as he used to be, he’s still an able relief pitcher. He ended 2023 with an ERA of 3.09, a very respectable figure for a 35-year-old.

On the other hand, Rhys Hoskins has been linked with the Cubs for as long as Bellinger. Reports have been mixed in this connection as the North Siders’ interest in Hoskins hinges on their dealings with Bellinger. The slugger missed 2023 due to injury but has consistently hit over 20 home runs in almost every season. In a team that doesn’t have many big hitters, Hoskins would make an instant impact. 

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But these are not the only players, there’s another two-time World Series winner they can go after. 

Joc Pederson, to take the Cubbies back to the winning ways?

Joc Pederson won the World Series in 2020 with the LA Dodgers and in 2021 with the Atlanta Braves. Between those two wins, he also played in the Cubs, but it wasn’t a successful time for him. Now a free agent, the 31-year-old can reunite with the Cubs to correct that bad record.

All of these players represent the kind of affordable signings that could propel the Cubs back to the playoffs. The team has already shown its ambitions by signing Craig Counsell as its manager. Fans are hoping that Counsell doesn’t remain the biggest news of the Cubs’ offseason this year.

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