Chicago Cubs Free Agent Target Heading to NL Central Rival
Missing out on free agent targets has been the theme of this offseason for the Chicago Cubs, who entered the winter looking for major roster upgrades.
With the need for more power in their lineup, there were some obvious targets for them to pursue in free agency.
However, they have missed out on another player.
The Milwaukee Brewers are finalizing a two-year, $34 million contract with Rhys Hoskins, according to Jeff Passan of ESPN. The former Philadelphia Phillies slugger was reportedly someone who Jed Hoyer and his front office were interested in.
Not only do the Cubs lose out on him in this deal, but Hoskins ends up with their biggest rival and National League Central opponent. Given the circumstances, it couldn't get much worse.
$34 million for a player coming off an ACL tear is a bit much, but the Brewers clearly believe Hoskins is ready to go. With Spring Training approaching, it'll be interesting to see how Hoskins looks if he gets action.
This is another player that Chicago weren't aggressive pursuing for whatever reason.
It's uncertain why he didn't end up with the Cubs, although the price tag could certainly be a factor. If it is, the front office has to come up with something to land a hitter to improve this lineup.
While the past few months have been concerning, it's eventually going to be time to press the panic button. This lineup isn't even as good as it was last season and that's a horrible sign.
With Jeimer Candelario heading to the Cincinnati Reds and Cody Bellinger potentially leaving in free agency, this lineup has a chance to be significantly worse.
The Shota Imanaga addition was a positive, and while his services will be a plus for Chicago, that can't be the only major move they make.
Hoskins, when healthy, is a legitimate threat to hit 30-plus home runs in a season.
There aren't many, if any current Cubs hitters, that can be said about.
