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Chicago Cubs: 1 free agent signing they must make to prove they are playoff contenders

Tyler KoerthBy 2 Mins Read
Chicago Cubs, Cubs News, Anthony Santander
MLB: Cincinnati Reds at Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs have not been in the postseason since the shortened 2020 season and they have not won a playoff game since 2017.  While the team has made some improvements this year, such as adding Kyle Tucker and Matthew Boyd, they shouldn’t be satisfied with stopping there.  If they want to prove they are serious playoff contenders there is one free agent they must target.

One free agent the Chicago Cubs must target

Chicago Cubs, Cubs News, Anthony Santander
MLB: Detroit Tigers at Baltimore Orioles

Available on the open market is outfielder Anthony Santander.  He is coming off an impressive 2024 campaign with the Baltimore Orioles where he received MVP votes, belted 44 home runs, and had a 102 RBI.  The 30 year old has hit 25 or more home runs each of the past three seasons and has played a huge role in the Orioles recent success.  Spotrac estimates that his market value is five years, $88 million.

Where would Anthony Santander fit in the lineup? 

Chicago Cubs, Cubs News, Anthony Santander
MLB: Baltimore Orioles at New York Yankees
As a switch-hitter, Anthony Santander offers everyday reliability, with no significant splits against either hand of pitching. While he has primarily played right field, where Kyle Tucker is projected to star, adding Santander could create flexibility in the Cubs’ outfield. With Pete Crow-Armstrong and Ian Happ filling the other two spots, and Seiya Suzuki currently slotted as the designated hitter, signing Santander might give the Cubs an opportunity to trade Suzuki, who has reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with a full-time DH role. This move would also allow Craig Counsell to rotate his outfielders between defensive duties and DH, helping keep them fresh throughout the season.

Adding Anthony Santander would prove that the Chicago Cubs are playoff contenders 

Chicago Cubs, Cubs News, Anthony Santander
MLB: Playoffs Kansas City Royals at Baltimore Orioles

Adding Anthony Santander would prove that the Chicago Cubs are playoff contenders by strengthening their lineup with a versatile, everyday player who can contribute both offensively and defensively.  Additionally, he has the ability to anchor the offense and take some pressure off of newcomer Kyle Tucker.  Making this splashy of a move may also signal to Kyle Tucker that this franchise is serious about being playoff contenders, thus increasing the likelihood of him signing with the team at the seasons end.

 

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