Chicago Cubs:
After landing veteran RHP John Lackey, Cubs are in the business of landing Jason Heyward:
“After landing starter John Lackey for a fraction of the cost, the Cubs are focusing the money they saved on trying to get top free-agent outfielder Jason Heyward, sources say.
And getting Heyward — or a Plan B option such as free agent Alex Gordon or Carlos Gomez (in a trade) — would possibly mean Soler is the next domino to fall in the off-season plans.
When asked if the Cubs had enough resources to go after a top free-agent outfielder, general manager Jed Hoyer said, “We have some available resources. I think that much is clear.”
He also said the front office no longer feels a strong need to add another starter as it continues to acquire pitching depth.
Meetings buzz: Hoyer said the Cubs have narrowed trade talks to 10 to 12 teams with realistic fits. One of those teams, the Braves, might be Soler’s strongest suitor, and a potential deal for starter Shelby Miller remains in play. … The Cubs on Monday reached agreement on a one-year, $4.25 million deal to re-sign free agent right-hander Trevor Cahill, a key bullpen piece down the stretch who could get a chance next spring to stretch out as a potential starter. … Rumors of a pitching-for-Javy Baez deal with the Rays appear to be driven by the Rays.”
Chicago Sun-Times, “Card tricks: After getting John Lackey, Cubs target Jason Heyward,” December 7, 2015