I’m not going to lie here, I wish these rumors were coming from someone other than David Kaplan because he’s been wishy washing on some major things before, but nonetheless we have some big Cubs rumors!
The latest involves a couple outfielders. According to Kaplan the Cubs are showing interest in bringing back Kyle Schwarber a season after non-tendering him.
Former #Cubs star Kyle Schwarber has emerged as one of the hottest free agents still available and has several teams in hot pursuit including the #Jays, #Red Sox and #Cubs. He will not come cheap. Cubs are in on multiple outfielders.
— David Kaplan (@thekapman) March 15, 2022
Cubs need some power in their lineup and a left-handed one at that would also be great. Plus, there’s no draft pick loss attached to Schwarber. It just makes total sense for the Cubs to see what it will take to sign Schwarber.
And then there’s also Japanese star Seiya Suzuki. On Monday there was a report from Nikkan Sports that he had already agreed to a contract with the Padres. Suzuki denied those reports on Instagram and then on Monday night he met with the Cubs.
Source confirms Cubs are expected to meet with Seiya Suzuki and his reps tonight. Cubs have numerous holes to fill and would love to add Suzuki. The 27-year-old outfielder fits short-term goal of trying to compete now & long-term for when Cubs hope young prospects arrive in bigs
— Sahadev Sharma (@sahadevsharma) March 14, 2022
On Tuesday, Kaplan followed that up saying the Cubs made a strong pitch to Suzuki and that owner Tom Ricketts was even in attendance for the meeting.
The #Cubs also made a very extensive pitch to Japanese star Seiya Suzuki last night with Tom Ricketts personally involved in the meeting and the team's pitch. He is one of the Cubs top priorities.
— David Kaplan (@thekapman) March 16, 2022
There is also more buzz about the Cubs and first baseman Anthony Rizzo. During the lockout there were reports that the Cubs would be ready to offer Rizzo a contract immediately after the lockout. We haven’t seen much about those talks happening until today.
The Chicago Cubs may be in contact with Anthony Rizzo and his agents tonight , Per source ✍🏽@hgomez27
— Mike Rodriguez | Univision 🍥 (@mikedeportes) March 15, 2022
Right now it appears that the Yankees are the only other suitor seriously interested in Rizzo and even that pursuit hinges on whether or not New York can sign Freddie Freeman.
UPDATE
And we have this from one of Anthony Rizzo’s friends from Chicago.
Rizzo staying in NYC 😐
At least it’s a job
— Dante (@DanteTheDon) March 16, 2022
Jesse Rogers has confirmed the agreement.
Breaking news: Anthony Rizzo in agreement on a contract with the Yankees, pending a physical.
— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) March 16, 2022
Early reports saying Rizzo is getting a two-year deal that includes an opt-out.
Anthony Rizzo is coming back to the Yankees.
Hearing 2 years for $32 million with an opt out after year 1
— Eric Hubbs (@BarstoolHubbs) March 16, 2022
