One thing that the 2022 Chicago Cubs have no shortage of is infielders on their roster. But will that be the case next season?
The team is expected to be active at the trade deadline and there’s no telling how the roster will look at the end of the season. Furthermore, predicting a potential roster for 2023 is nearly impossible due to the extensive list of potential trade options and some expiring contracts.
The Cubs reportedly may be interested in spending big money to bolster their infield for next season. This offseason, there will be several big-name shortstops hitting free agency.
Bob Nightengale with USA Today reported the following about the Cubs:
“They have their eyes on shortstop Trea Turner, Carlos Correa, and Xander Bogaerts. I guarantee you they’re going to get one of them,’’ one veteran GM told USA TODAY Sports.
This may come as a surprise to many Cubs fans.
The Cubs have been disappointing this season, but the shortstop position has not been a weakness in their lineup. Nico Hoerner has been incredibly impressive this season as the everyday shortstop. Hoerner is slashing .290/.321/.405 through 39 games. He has also shown much-improved defense and arm strength.
The Cubs are likely to move several pieces at this season’s trade deadline, although Hoerner being one of them is unlikely. If the Cubs were to add one of these big-name shortstops, Nico Hoerner would likely split time between second base, some shortstop, and some DH. This season, the Cubs are getting creative with several infield configurations.
This report can lead fans to believe that this will continue next season.
The Cubs’ performance at this point in the season already has many looking toward potential offseason moves. With plenty of money to spend, it will be interesting to see how this offseason unfolds for the Chicago Cubs.
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