Cubs Could Make Bold Move, Sign $88 Million Outfielder
The Chicago Cubs have a chance to build on their 83-win season from 2024 and solidify their roster for a playoff push. After addressing their pitching by adding Matthew Boyd earlier in the offseason, their next priority is boosting offensive firepower. While the lineup includes players skilled at getting on base, the team lacks a true power hitter following the trade of Cody Bellinger.
One way to address this gap is by signing one of the top free-agent outfielders available: Anthony Santander. Coming off a career-best season with the Baltimore Orioles, Santander smashed 44 home runs and drove in 102 RBIs. This marked his third consecutive season with at least 25 homers and 85 RBIs.
Advanced metrics from Baseball Savant highlight Santander’s offensive prowess, with a 79th-percentile barrel rate and a 41.6% hard-hit percentage. Additionally, the National League Central boasts the highest home run average across MLB divisions (37.8), which could amplify Santander’s power numbers.
Defensively, Santander has a strong throwing arm but lacks ideal positioning and range, presenting a development opportunity for the Cubs. Despite these challenges, his potential to hit 35 or more home runs makes him worth the gamble. Santander is projected to command a five-year, $88 million deal, averaging $17.7 million annually.
If the Cubs prefer not to move Kyle Tucker from right field—where he posted three Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) in 2022—Santander could slot in as a designated hitter. This move would also open up the possibility of trading Seiya Suzuki to address other team needs.
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