Chicago Cubs Potential Third Base Targets in Free Agency

The Chicago Cubs are looking to upgrade their third base position during free agency this offseason. These are some players they could target when the 2023 MLB season ends.

The Chicago Cubs are looking to upgrade their roster when the offseason begins. Whether it's through free agency or by way of trade will be seen, but it's clear there are positions they're targeting.

At the top of the Cubs' wish list is first and third base.

They had a rotation of players at both positions during the 2023 season and would like to get some more stability if possible.

The rumor mill has begun about Chicago's interest in trading for New York Mets' star slugger Pete Alonso. That would take care of the first base position.

Upgrade options at third base are a little bit more hard to come by, considering the lack of top end players that will be available in free agency.

Matt Chapman is easily the best player that is hitting the open market.

The three-time Gold Glover has spent his last two seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays after being traded away by the Oakland Athletics.

His power numbers were down in 2023 compared to last season. He finished the year with 17 home runs, which was 10 fewer than in 2022.

However, he had his best slash line in three years recording a .240/.330/.424.

Chapman is great defensive option who has a power bat that the Cubs are looking for at that position.

Chicago could also re-sign Jeimer Candelario, who they acquired at the trade deadline this season. In 41 games, he had a slash line of .234/.318/.445 with six home runs and 17 RBI.

He also finished the year with a WAR of 3.1, proving his value on both the offensive and defensive side.

The Cubs could also go a different route if they are able to re-sign their star Cody Bellinger and acquire Alonso.

With those large contracts on their books, they might opt for a cheaper option at third base.

Isiah Kiner-Falefa could be a choice if they go this route.

The 28-year-old is listed as a shortstop, but played multiple positions across the infield and outfield, including third base, while with the New York Yankees.

He doesn't possess a big power bat, but with Bellinger and Alonso in the lineup they wouldn't necessarily need that from Kiner-Falefa.

What he would provide is solid defense at the hot corner and a life time slash line of .261/.314/.346, getting on base for a lineup full of sluggers.

Which route the front office ultimately decides to go depends on how much money ownership is willing to shell out when trying to build a contender.