On the day before Thanksgiving here in the United States, let's take a look at some of the latest MLB rumors, news and notes involving the Chicago Cubs, Toronto Blue Jays and Chicago White Sox.
Chicago Cubs-Toronto Blue Jays trade rumors
There is still buzz out there regarding a trade between the Chicago Cubs and Toronto Blue Jays involving Bo Bichette ... but there is certainly a plot twist to any deal that would bring Bichette to Wrigley Field.
Update on a Bo Bichette trade scenario, per @matt_cozzi. Here’s a point to ponder: How would a Bichette-to-Cubs trade impact the way Ohtani views both of these potential suitors? @MLBNetwork https://t.co/1wp8ddbkw5
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) November 22, 2023
Bichette is a two-time All-Star but has played every defensive pitch during his five-year career with Toronto at shortstop. A move to third base for the Cubs would certainly be a boost for the North Siders as the team finished 17th last season in combined bWAR at third base at minus-0.5, with seven players taking their turn at the hot corner (with Nick Madrigal getting in the most plate appearances while playing third base at 243).
If the Cubs were to land Bichette, it would, as mentioned above, be a costly move. Would the Cubs be willing to pay that price knowing they have been linked to Ohtani and other big free agent names this offseason as well?
Chicago White Sox rumors: Is Whit Merrifield a fit?
According to FanSided MLB insider Robert Murray in this article, a relationship between Merrifield and current White Sox manager Pedro Grifol while the two were together with the Kansas City Royals could lay the groundwork for the 34-year-old Merrifield to continue his career in a White Sox uniform.
Like Bichette, Merrifield earned All-Star honors last season with the Blue Jays, slashing .272/.318/.382 with 11 home runs and 67 RBI. Merrifield saw time last season at second base and both corner outfield positions, showing some versatility that would likely be welcomed on the South Side as the White Sox continue to reinvent themselves.