3 Cubs starters who could be replaced by major free agent signing
By Tim Boyle
These three Chicago Cubs starters could be replaced by major free agent signings this offseason.
Will the Chicago Cubs get back on the wagon this offseason? Their rebuild has been dragging along thus far, with no true commitment to tearing it completely apart or giving the fans a satisfying major retool.
The big market Cubs are expected to at least be mildly active this offseason. This could include some major free agent signings to replace the current players on the roster finishing out the year.
It’s these three starters the Cubs should most look to replace with a major free agent signing. As a bonus, there’s a candidate about to hit free agency this winter that could fill the spot.
1) Cubs can replace Nico Hoerner at shortstop with a major free agent signing
Nico Hoerner has actually had a pretty fantastic season for the Cubs this year. He’s hitting well, playing great defense, and making them forget a reunion with Javier Baez was ever an option.
The huge leap Hoerner made in 2022 might have the Cubs thinking twice about actually replacing him, however, with a lot of superstar shortstops available, they need to at least try.
Hoerner has been good but why leave so many more proven players sitting out there unsigned? Hoerner could always move over to second or third base or even become more of a utility player. Things tend to work out over the course of the year where you need a guy like Hoerner on the roster.
A free agent for the Cubs to target would be Carlos Correa. Someone they were rumored to have interest in signing last winter, he would be a natural fit to eventually move to third base in a few seasons. He would get the veteran priority to play shortstop over Hoerner, though. The 2021 Gold Glove winner at the position, Chicago could have an awesome defensive infield with Correa and shortstop and Hoerner at second base.