MLB Free Agency: Cubs Identified as One of the Most Desperate Teams, Insider Reveals – NBC Sports Chicago

As the baseball industry’s winter meetings commence in Nashville, a reputable MLB insider delivers a candid analysis of the Chicago Cubs’ approach to free agency.

The word used to describe it: “desperation.”

In his recent piece, USA Today’s Bob Nightengale labeled the Cubs as one of the most “desperate” teams in baseball as they pursue roster improvements following their playoff miss in the 2023 season.

“You don’t fire your beloved manager, steal manager Craig Counsell from your rival, pay him a record salary, shout from the Chicago rooftops that it’s Ohtani or bust, and sit back and tell your fanbase that at least you tried if you don’t land him,” Nightengale remarked.

Nightengale also identified the Yankees and Dodgers, among others, as the teams most desperate to enhance their squads during the free agency period.

The Cubs have been connected to numerous free agents, including the highly sought-after Shohei Ohtani, whose contract situation is likely a major factor in the current free agency market delay.

It remains uncertain whether Ohtani plans to meet with teams at the winter meetings or if he will sign with a team before they conclude on Wednesday. However, the Cubs, along with the Dodgers, Blue Jays, and Giants, have consistently been linked to the sought-after free agent.

Reports have also linked the Cubs to several other players, including San Diego Padres closer Josh Hader, while trade rumors have surrounded Tampa Bay Rays ace Tyler Glasnow and Cleveland Guardians star Shane Bieber.

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