Ranking the 3 most important Cubs free agent targets
By Tim Boyle
2) Cubs free agent target Carlos Correa changes the lineup in a big way
Nico Hoerner may have the Cubs pausing to think twice about signing one of the big shortstops, however, they can simply move him to second base where they’ll have enough trouble improving. This leaves them open to signing the second-most important free agent of theirs this winter, Carlos Correa.
Correa has opted out of his deal with the Minnesota Twins where he batted .291/.366/.467 for them last year. Combined with his seven seasons with the Houston Astros, he’s now a lifetime .279/.357/.479 hitter with an average of 28 home runs and 101 RBI per 162 games.
The problem with Correa early on was staying healthy. Believe it or not, he only has two seasons in Houston where he topped 120 games. He has been taking the field regularly for the last three years so that’s not really much of a concern anymore.
For the Cubs, Correa can completely change the way their lineup looks. He brings power, average, and an ability to get on base. What’s more, he turned 28 in September. If Rodon is a fit for the Cubs because of his age, Correa makes even more sense. Right now should be the peak of his career and it very could be if he’s on the right ball club.
Signing Correa would be a huge step forward for the Cubs who are looking to get back in the thick of the postseason race. They are one of the teams who can afford to pay Correa a lot of money. Even if he’s their one blockbuster addition of the offseason, look for it to be the start of something bigger on the Northside of town.