The Chicago Cubs had the answer right in front of them. Carlos Correa was sitting on the free agent market, the last shortstop remaining on the market. After the Cubs had signed Seiya Suzuki and Marcus Stroman in their quest to reload and contend once more, Correa could have been the capstone to an excellent offseason.
Instead, they let Correa remain on the market. He was quite interested in joining the Cubs as well, but nothing happened. Correa signed with the Twins on a three year deal, albeit with opt-out clauses after each year, while the Cubs rolled the dice with Nico Hoerner and Nick Madrigal in the middle of their infield.
Chicago Cubs targeting top shortstop during offseason
At least the Cubs learned their lesson. They are planning to rectify their mistakes this offseason and are reportedly looking to target one of the top shortstops available.
Although this year’s shortstop class is not as deep as the 2021-22 crop, there are several interesting names that will be available. Trea Turner is slated to reach free agency unless he signs an extension in Los Angeles. Correa and Xander Bogaerts are both expected to trigger their opt-out clauses, allowing them to enter the market.
This time, there will not be any excuses. The Cubs know that they need to upgrade in the middle of their infield. Madrigal and Hoerner may have been worth a look previously, but that time is over. They clearly are not with the Cubs need in their quest to contend. And maybe the Cubs will find the answer in front of them again, albeit a year later.
The Chicago Cubs made a mistake by not signing Carlos Correa. This time, they are targeting a top shortstop in the 2022-23 free agent class.