Cubs: 3 free agents to sign, 1 to avoid this MLB offseason
By Tim Boyle
4. Cubs should avoid signing Jose Abreu
Another former member of the White Sox is Jose Abreu. The Cubs should avoid him. He is a better fit other places. Teams hoping to win it all in 2023 should be looking at him. The Cubs, who should hold off the highest expectations for another year, should be looking at younger options for first base.
Anthony Rizzo would certainly fit this billing. As unexciting as it may be for some fans to see a bunch of reunions, it does fit into the timeline for winning.
The 2022 lineup had a huge offensive hole at first base last season. It’s something they need to address. Abreu isn’t the answer for them. He’s a temporary option.
Someone like Josh Bell would be a much better fit. His ability to also play the corner outfield makes him intriguing enough to eye. Abreu is beginning to become more of a DH than first baseman. He’s a good fit in many places. The Cubs just aren’t it.
In free agency, we should expect the Cubs to add one of the top shortstops, a first baseman, and an arm. Will they end up with any of these targets and avoid settling with Abreu?
The MLB offseason is young. Fans on the Northside of Chicago have something to be excited about. The 2022 season is over. It’s time to move forward.