The Cubs are seeking starting pitching this winter and are targeting buy-low candidates poised for rebound seasons, writes Gordon Wittenmyer of The Chicago Sun-Times. They've already expressed some interest in Brandon McCarthy and Shaun Marcum.
"I think the contracts we signed last winter are a good model," said GM Jed Hoyer. "I think we have a chance to maybe sign more of those this year with a little bit more money to spend … We might be able to sign more contracts like that or maybe even a little larger than last year, but I think it’s a good model of contract that really served us well."
The Cubs signed Paul Maholm to a one-year, $4.75MM contract with club option last winter before flipping him for prospects at the trade deadline. David DeJesus signed a two-year, $10MM deal last offseason and could be moved for more prospects at some point either this offseason or prior to the trade deadline.
Both McCarthy, 29, and Marcum, 30, have battled injuries these last two seasons but have otherwise pitched well. McCarthy owns a 3.29 ERA in 281 2/3 innings since the start of last year while Marcum is at a 3.60 ERA in 324 2/3 innings during the same time. Both right-handers could seek one-year contracts to rebuild value in hopes of landing a bigger payday next winter, which would suit Chicago well.
The Cubs tried to acquire Dan Haren last week, only to have the deal fall apart at the last minute. The Angels declined his option and made him a free agent, so the right-hander could still be a target for the Cubbies if the price is right. Last night Haren's agent declared his client healthy following speculation that the trade fell apart due to concerns about his back.
I believe the Cubs are going to add at least 1 starting pitcher soon and then maybe see how the free agent and trade markets develop.
Sign all the pitchers, Jed.
I can definitely see Marcum signing with the Cubs; McCarthy on the hand I think will ultimately stay with the A’s, though.
these are two guys i wanna see in cubbie blue and help us turn the season around. id like it if we sign both of these guys and go after Haren or if not sign one of E.jackson/A.Sanchez long term.
I just cant wait till the off-season gets into full swing!
Love the idea of Marcum and bringing in Haren. McCarthy has been a bit too injury prone (head shot notwithstanding) for me to get behind a contract for him. Id avoid Jackson. Sanchez would be interesting but i think he will want too much.
Marcum, Haren, and maybe bring back dempster maybe take a flier on a Jair Jurrjens or kevin correia. Scott Baker is worth a look too. but in the end i think we end up with Marcum and hopefully Haren.
Is it just me or does it not make sense for Jed Hoyer to share this position publicly?
Do you think this is surprising anyone?
Plus read the quote from Hoyer, not the article. Not really any details.
But it could be telling these guys a range if they want to have a guaranteed rotation spot next year, to rebuild their value, they need to be in that price range. It actually is pretty smart, IMO.
yes cubs, please sign as many fly ball pitchers as possible. we like seeing the fans in the outfield bleachers showing off their arms.
Wrigley has been average to slightly difficult to homer in for two seasons running.
They can’t homer off you if you are on the DL
Typical cubs: sign above average FA, trade him mid season and look for a better next season.
Except that hasn’t been their MO for as long as I can remember. Hendry was a fan of signing boat anchors and then holding on to them past their value.
Anibal Sanchez and Brandon McCarthy in Cubby blue next year and I will be a happy rah rah
These are good stop-gap options. The Cubs aren’t kidding anyone into believing they’ll contend. But with financial flexibility, it makes sense to flip these guys at the deadline and stock up on prospects. And if they suddenly fit into the big picture scheme, it’s a good problem to have. Even with the medical issues, I’d try for Haren. The Cubs need to be willing to trade everyone not named Castro, Rizzo, or Samardjiza.