The Chicago Cubs’ approach to finding an ace seemed to be taking shape amid interest in Tatsuya Imai, but according to the latest, it won’t involve Philadelphia Phillies free agent Ranger Suarez.
While Chicago has explored arms this offseason, the idea of signing to one of the most expensive starters available isn’t likely.
Mark Feinsand of MLB.com had the latest on Suarez and the Cubs.
“A number of clubs were interested in Imai to varying degrees, but the Cubs seem to have been the most aggressive suitor after the Astros,” Feinsand wrote. “That doesn’t mean Chicago will now pivot to one of the other top free-agent starters, as Ranger Suárez and Framber Valdez figure to cost significantly more than Imai -- who will earn between $18 million and $21 million in each of the next three seasons depending on performance bonuses and can opt out after 2026 and 2027.”
Suarez is exactly what a lot of teams look for when they’re ready to win.
He’s shown that he can get outs at the highest of levels and the Cubs would be stealing him from another NL playoff squad.
However, that kind of upgrade comes at a price, and Chicago continues to be cheap, for whatever reason.
While a reunion with the Phillies hasn’t been ruled out yet, it’s very unlikely unless something changes over the next few days to weeks.
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