Who Can Take the Chicago Cubs to the Playoffs in 2015?
Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
Before free agency heats up at the winter meetings, I would like to propose a question to Cubs fans. Who, in all of MLB, could the Chicago Cubs make a deal either with or for in order to make them a favorite for a playoff spot in 2015? Now this question in and of itself is implausible because it takes more than just one guy to be successful, but it is fun to wonder, isn’t it? Here are some high-end guys who could possibly vault the Cubs into the conversation. This article will focus on outfielders, because they are the Cubs biggest need right now, and the next will focus on pitchers.
First and foremost is herculean power hitter Giancarlo Stanton. He is everything the Cubs need offensively. He is a massive name in a lineup of young unknowns, Starlin Castro and Anthony Rizzo. His bat in Chicago’s lineup makes them exponentially better than before and he is still young for his offensive prowess. On top of that, the Cubs’ worst offensive position was in left field. Even though Junior Lake is a super prospect looking to take an outfield spot, he is injury-prone, and Stanton would take a lot of pressure off of him. Now, the Cubs would have to give up essentially everything to get him, which is a dumb move, but as pure speculation he is an interesting candidate to pursue.
Another guy who could have a huge impact is Colorado Rockies All-Star outfielder, Carlos Gonzales. He hits, plays defense and is a straight up leader in the outfielder. He doesn’t come with the same offensive potential as Stanton, but he can play, no argument about it. Again, the package the Cubs would have to give up would be way too valuable to be considered a smart move, but anything can happen. A few honorable mentions to this list would be Yasiel Puig, Nelson Cruz or even Melky Cabrera.
Matthew Haines is a Chicago Cubs writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @mhaine86 , “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google
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