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The Cubs would like to bring back Nick Castellanos, but all signs point to them not being able to afford him. Bruce Levine is the only reporter to connect the Cubs with starting pitcher Dallas Keuchel, so that link is kind of weird. That leaves Japanese free agent Shogo Akiyama is the only realistic target the Cubs are pursuing at this point in the offseason.
Their interest in the center fielder has been documented for more than a month and the last we heard was Akiyama’s asking price set at three years for $15 million. The Cubs still have their eyes on him and according to 670 The Score’s Bruce Levine they met with him at the Winter Meetings this week in San Diego.
In his follow up, Levine reports that Akiyama’s price has actually dropped and should be well within the Cubs range, as they once again have financial constraints.
Via 670 The Score.
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With a real need to address their center field position and the leadoff spot in the lineup, the Cubs met with Japanese outfielder Shogo Akiyama here at the Winter Meetings, a source said.
The Cubs have payroll constraints that are making additions difficult for them this offseason, but it appears Akiyama will fit into their price range. Akiyama would be content with a deal of two years and around $10 million, a second source said. There’s no posting fee involved with Akiyama, who turns 32 in April.
The Diamondbacks have also met with the 31-year-old free agent.
The Reds and Rays have also shown interest in signing Akiyama.
You can read more about Akiyama here and here. Quick scouting report: makes a lot of contact, draws walks, low strikeout rate, decent speed, OK defense.
UPDATE
Guess the Cubs can’t afford Akiyama either right now.
