Russell Martin Should Strongly Consider Signing With the Chicago Cubs
By Douglas Smith
@DFresh39
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
As an aging free agent, Russell Martin is looking for a splash deal that could potentially lead into retirement. Luckily, he has positioned himself for this MLB free agency year and is easily the best catcher available. In some ways, it would be a feel-good story if he returned to the Pittsburgh Pirates. However, he needs to consider the offer from the Chicago Cubs as they will potentially offer the most lucrative deal. They are also going after top-notch pitching and have plenty of young talent that could make them a contender in the NL Central.
The Cubs will not shy away from a multi-year deal as the Pirates are doing. Rumor is that Martin would love a four-year deal despite turning 32 before the start of the 2015 season. Martin would be a major upgrade for the Cubs, who need a player that can command the plate and frame well for their pitchers. He would be willing to learn the current pitching staff as he showed in Pittsburgh, whether it is through watching video or interviews. Martin will hit the ground running and have a good chance at replicating his 2014 season based on his work ethic, which is just another reason the Cubs are targeting him.
The Cubs have plenty of talent, but they are making a run at some of the top pitchers available this offseason. Some are projecting Jon Lester will land in Chicago. Max Scherzer and Andrew Miller are also rumored to be drawing interest from the Cubs and new manager Joe Maddon. Martin would love to work with these guys. If the Cubs can land any of those pitchers, it shows their commitment to winning and being in contention as soon as possible.
The Cubs also need leadership on a young team so they will pay more to have a great personality in the clubhouse. Martin could also help the Cubs’ future catchers learn the position. These are things a team like Chicago can overpay for, and they will. A four-year deal with an average annual salary of $14 million or more is not out of the question.
Martin needs to think over the Cubs’ deal that is sure to come when he turns down the qualifying offer from the Pirates. They will hand him the money he wants and the contract length that maximizes earning potential. The Cubs want to compete soon and will be active in free agency. It is a good fit for Martin and the Cubs would be glad to have him.
Douglas Smith is a soccer writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @DFresh39, “Like” him on Facebook, or add him to your network on Google.
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