The Chicago Cubs are continuing to show interest in a power-hitting first baseman.
The Chicago Cubs are still showing interest in acquiring former Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Rhys Hoskins, according to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com.
Hoskins could make a decision in the near future as his market continues to heat up. Of the possible suitors, the Cubs and Toronto Blue Jays are the most notable.
While Feinsand reports the interest in Hoskins, he adds a different twist. With Cody Bellinger still on the market, and Chicago showing him interest, they could decide to wait until he makes his decision to continue pursuing Hoskins.
The right-handed hitter would be a positive addition to a lineup that needs help, but with Pete Crow-Armstrong potentially playing every game in 2024, there might not be room for him.
In a scenario where Bellinger returns and Crow-Armstrong is in the lineup, Bellinger could shift to first base. That would leave Hoskins without a position.
Hoskins could slot into the DH spot, which could be the best option for him anyway as he rehabs from his ACL injury. The 30-year-old was injured during Spring Training last season.
There aren’t many free agents on the market who can do what Hoskins does when healthy. In every season that he’s played more than 100 games, he’s hit at least 27 home runs.
After missing out on their initial targets, Chicago doesn’t have the luxury of adding perfect players. Hoskins is far from perfect, especially after this injury, but the risk is worth it for the front office. Perhaps he can have a bounce back season and prove to be a worthy signing on a cheaper deal.