3 Remaining Affordable Free Agents the Cubs Should Sign
By Jerry Trotta
Speaking in terms of clubs that have disappointed with their lack of activity this offseason, the Chicago Cubs have to top the list.
As of this writing, GM Theo Epstein and Co. have spent a paltry $0 this winter, despite failing to make the postseason in 2019.
Assuming this narrative changes for the better in the eyes of the Wrigley Field faithful, let's highlight a few players that the organization can afford to sign.
3. Brock Holt
Following the franchise's decision to part ways with Addison Russell, Chicago lacks depth up the middle of their infield. Enter Brock Holt, who enjoyed a nice run in Boston, which included an All-Star appearance in 2015. Holt lacks power, but that's the last thing the Cubs should be fishing for on the open market. He hits for average and his defensive versatility -- he played at six different positions in 2019 -- could be just what the doctored ordered for Epstein and Co.
2. Collin McHugh
Why on earth haven't the Cubs addressed their bullpen yet? We've heard next to no rumors linking McHugh to a potential suitor. It's a match made in heaven for the Cubbies -- an innings-eater who needs a place to eat said innings, and a team bereft of middle-innings candidates. The 32-year-old McHugh whiffed 82 men in 74.2 innings pitched last year, posting a 4.70 ERA. The season prior, however, he was absolutely dominant, going all year with a 1.99 mark. What is Epstein waiting for?
1. Yasiel Puig
Puig's up-and-down 2019 campaign with Cincinnati and Cleveland has led to him enduring a laborious and prolonged stint as a free agent. The former All-Star won't be looking for a long-term deal, and the Cubs should absolutely think about plucking him off the streets. Puig provides a stable glove and exceptional arm in the outfield. Sure, his production at the plate fluctuates, but you're guaranteed a floor of a .265 average, 20 home runs, and 70 RBI. Chicago could do a lot worse, and Puig could prove to be a viable replacement for Nicholas Castellanos, assuming he lands somewhere else in free agency.