Author Topic: Cubs in '17 - 👑👑👑 Reigning Champions Edition 👑👑👑  (Read 75323 times)

davep

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Big questions:
Who closes?
Do they pick up Hammel's option? 
Do they move Heyward to center, perhaps a platoon with Almora there?
Trade Soler for pitching?

If they do not re-sign Chapman, I would expect them to sign another closer.  Is there anyone decent that will be a free agent?  Otherwise, perhaps Edwards.

I can not think of any reason not to exercise Hammel's option.  At the very least, he should bring back a very good prospect in a trade.

I hope they play Almora in center.  Heyward can be moved there if Almora struggles badly.

I expect Soler to be traded, since there seems to be no place for him to play (barring injury, of course).  Maddon played Baez at second every day in the post season, and probably will be there full time next year.  That puts Zobrist in the corner outfield along with Heyward if Almora plays CF.  Even if Heyward moves to center, they will still have to find playing time for both Schwarber and Contreras in the outfield on days that they don't catch.  However, at this point, I doubt that Soler could bring back a starting pitcher that would be much better than what we have even if Arrieta leaves for free agency next winter.  Just trade him for the best prospect you can get, regardless of position.