MLB Hot Stove: Astros lineup with Jose Abreu, Cubs backup plan, Jacob deGrom rumors
By Mark Powell
Chicago Cubs backup plans after missing on Jose Abreu
Jose Abreu was deemed a fit to switch teams in the Windy City, but he never really came close to signing a deal with the Cubs. If anything, the Cuban infielder was stuck between a move to Florida or Houston, and ended up choosing the latter.
Jed Hoyer and the Cubs office of baseball operations has already met with the agents of Trey Mancini and Josh Bell. The latter is likely the biggest free-agent first baseman remaining on the market, as he has All-Star potential at his best, and played quite well before the trade deadline with the Washington Nationals last season. It’s what occurred after with the San Diego Padres which might scare teams off, as he hit below the Mendoza line.
It’s much the same story with Mancini, who was one of the great inspirations in all of baseball during his time with the Baltimore Orioles. Yet, after a trade to Houston, he struggled to regain that form.
Chicago was also in contact with Cody Bellinger’s representatives early this offseason. Bellinger, who won the NL MVP in 2019, can play the outfield or first base. Should the Cubs wish to make first base his permanent home, perhaps he could be a fit as well.