Realistic Expectations for the Cubs This Offseason

With the hiring of Joe Maddon, the Cubs are expected to be a lot more aggressive in free agency. According to front office, Maddon didn't change their plans. They were to be aggressive regardless. But what is realistic for the Cubs this offseason? 

The Cubs are interested in the big names this winter like; Jon Lester, Max Scherzer, Jake Peavy, James Shields and Russell Martin. There were also reports yesterday stating that the Cubs will call the Philadelphia Phillies to inquire about Cole Hamels. If one thing is apparent, the Cubs need pitching.

Is it realistic they land two of the top free agent pitchers available? I personally don't think so. I predict the Cubs will land either Lester or Scherzer and possibly add James Shields or Jake Peavy at the right cost.  

The first domino to fall will most likely be Martin to the Cubs. ESPN's Buster Olney predicts that Martin is destined for the Windy City. I agree. Position wise, catcher is the weakest position for the Cubbies. Especially in the infield with every position set in stone except for catcher. Expect Martin to be the first domino to fall.

Now, the Cubs biggest need is obviously pitching. I don't see where they could wrong with any of these guys available. Personally, Jon Lester is a favorite of mine. I'd love to see him in Cubbie blue. You can't go wrong with him or Scherzer.

I wouldn't mind seeing Scherzer in a Cubs uniform either. He's made a name for himself as one of the top pitchers in the league over the past few seasons. With all that said, I'd be surprised if Lester or Scherzer don't end up with the Cubs.

The Cubs may want to save some money for next offseason with possibly an opportunity to sign David Price. Price, of course has the connection with Joe Maddon, his former manager in Tampa Bay. That's also where the James Shields to Cubs connection comes in as well. Its a more likely possibility to see Shields on the Cubs then Price.

Personally, I wouldn't mind the Cubs signing Lester or Scherzer then signing Peavy or Shields and then finding a way to also trade for Cole Hamels. That would be a nice three-headed monster. I doubt the Cubs could pull that off, but you never know.

The Cubs future is filled with excitement with pitching as the only area of concern. Their infield will be great with the impending arrival of last year's Minor League player of the year, Kris Bryant. Bryant is loaded with talent. 

The Cubs could have a roster as soon as this upcoming season consisting of; Kris Bryant, Javier Baez, Starlin Castro, Anthony Rizzo, Arismendy Alcantara and Jorge Soler. Lots of pure talent. A very young team that is destined for success.

In the end, these are my predictions for the Cubs offseason:

Jon Lester: 6 years, $135 million

Russell Martin: 4 years, $72 million

Cole Hamels: Via trade with Phillies

& expect a lot of small signing as well. 

All in all, it will be a busy offseason for the Chicago Cubs!