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MLB trade rumors: 5 moves the Cubs should consider

By Corey Francis

May 6, 2017; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Gerrit Cole (45) delivers a pitch against the Milwaukee Brewers during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
May 6, 2017; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Gerrit Cole (45) delivers a pitch against the Milwaukee Brewers during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 5, 2017; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays center fielder Kevin Pillar (11) hits a RBI double during the eighth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
May 5, 2017; St. Petersburg, FL, USA; Toronto Blue Jays center fielder Kevin Pillar (11) hits a RBI double during the eighth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Outfield depth is needed

Here is a statement that may seem strange, but it is true. The Cubs need more depth in the outfield. Let me clarify that a bit: they need more reliable help.

Look, I love the thought of Kyle Schwarber mashing home runs over and over again. While is play in the outfield has not been horrible, he is not an outfielder. Almora and Jay are fighting for daily playing time, and Jason Heyward is starting to come around. Still, it is not the best outfield that it could be.

Think about this. In 2018, the Chicago Cubs have two catchers on the roster: Willson Contreras and Schwarber. Miguel Montero is playing well in 2017, but his price tag will limit his options in 2018. Contreras and Schwarber will fight for the starting position. Jon Jay will likely not be on the 2018 roster. Ian Happ may make the 25-man roster, but not should not be a starter yet.

There is an AL East team that needs some help at catcher. Send Miguel Montero to the Toronto Blue Jays and get Kevin Pillar. In terms of money, it is a bit unfair, so the Jays can ask for Jeimer Candelario or Tommy La Stella, and pitching prospect Oscar De la Cruz.  The added infield and starting rotation depth would be assets to the Jays.

And the Cubs could use the depth in the outfield, and a solid leadoff option. It may move Almora over to left field in a platoon with Schwarber, but it is an improvement over the team now.

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