The Chicago Cubs are determined to make a splash during free agency.
They were on the verge of making the playoffs last season, and know that with new manager Craig Counsell in the fold and a strong offseason, they could leverage one of the game’s best farm systems into a postseason appearance in 2024 and beyond.
The Cubs are reportedly interested in Shohei Ohtani, but know that the competition on that front will be fierce.
That’s why they are also focused on other targets and are currently seen as the favorites to land an elite pitcher.
“The #Cubs are among the favorites for Yoshinobu Yamamoto, per @JeffPassan,” Cubs Zone tweeted.
The #Cubs are among the favorites for Yoshinobu Yamamoto, per @JeffPassan.
Full article here: https://t.co/mqYlricRZB pic.twitter.com/d1M0rK4Gz7
— Cubs Zone (@CubsZone) December 1, 2023
Yamamoto is no Ohtani because he can’t hit, but has the potential to be almost as good a pitcher.
They both shared the spotlight in the World Baseball Classic and are considered elite hurlers.
Yamamoto is 25, a perfect age for free agents to sign, yet still experienced and accomplished enough to think he won’t be overwhelmed by the pressure and the spotlight of pitching in MLB.
In 2023, he posted a minuscule 1.21 ERA with the Orix Buffaloes of the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) league, winning his third straight Pacific League MVP award and Eiji Sawamura award.
Armed with a high-90s fastball, a filthy splitter and several other secondaries, Yamamoto’s primary calling card is his impeccable command.
If the Cubs manage to land him, they will have an ace for years to come.
He won’t be cheap, but chances are the acquiring team won’t regret paying the posting fee and the contract.
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