What's Happening?
The Chicago Cubs recently met with first baseman Pete Alonso during the Winter Meetings in Orlando, as reported by Jon Heyman of The New York Post. Alonso, who ultimately signed a five-year deal with the Baltimore
Orioles, was also in discussions with the Boston Red Sox. The Cubs' interest in Alonso suggests they were considering bolstering their lineup, particularly in light of losing key players like Kyle Tucker to free agency. The Cubs currently have Michael Busch as their primary first baseman, who has shown strong performance against right-handed pitchers but struggles against lefties. The team had previously signed veteran Justin Turner to address this platoon issue, but with Turner now gone, the Cubs are exploring options to fill this gap. Alonso, a right-handed hitter, could have provided a solution by playing first base against left-handed pitchers and serving as a designated hitter against righties.
Why It's Important?
The Cubs' pursuit of Pete Alonso underscores their strategic focus on strengthening their lineup following the departure of significant players. Alonso's potential role would have addressed the team's need for a right-handed power hitter to complement Michael Busch. This move indicates the Cubs' broader offseason strategy to remain competitive in the National League by filling key lineup gaps. The interest in Alonso also reflects the team's willingness to explore various options, including trades and free agency, to enhance their roster. The Cubs' actions are part of a larger trend among MLB teams to adapt to changing player dynamics and maintain a competitive edge.
What's Next?
With Alonso now signed by the Orioles, the Cubs will likely continue to explore other options to strengthen their lineup. They have been linked to other right-handed hitters such as Alex Bregman and Eugenio Suárez, as well as considering trades for players like Ryan Mountcastle. The Cubs may also look into signing affordable right-handed bats in free agency to fill the void left by Justin Turner. Additionally, the team is expected to pursue a significant addition to their pitching rotation, which remains a priority for the offseason.
