Chicago Cubs Miss On Another Free Agent Target

The Chicago Cubs won't be signing another top free-agent target this offseason.

The disappointment for the Chicago Cubs continued this offseason as the Los Angeles Dodgers agreed to a deal with pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, per multiple reports.

The deal's numbers included 12 years and $325 million, according to ESPN's Jeff Passan. The Dodgers have not formally announced the deal. 

Yamamoto was the Cubs' top target after they missed out on Shohei Ohtani. Now, Yamamoto will join him in Los Angeles, along with another Cubs trade target, Tyler Glasnow, who was dealt to the Dodgers from Tampa Bay. 

This has been a trend for Chicago this offseason. It's been a rough few weeks trying to improve the roster. Whether it's because the Cubs wanted to avoid getting into a bidding war or the free agents simply did not want to play in Chicago, the club hasn't had much luck.

The blow is somewhat softened by the fact that the Cubs were not a finalist for Yamamoto. But, a pitcher of his caliber from overseas — with three straight Pacific League MVP awards to his credit — would have been a boon to the Cubs' pitching staff. 

Now, the Cubs will have to shift toward other options as they look to make up for the ground they've lost.

The front office could give first baseman/outfielder Cody Bellinger what he's looking for. Bellinger remains the best free-agent bat on the market and there is now a significant drop-off in the marketplace behind him. 

As for the needs on the mound, Blake Snell become an obvious first choice for the Cubs if they want to shell out a big contract. The two-time Cy Young winner is still available, as is former Texas Rangers left-hander Jordan Montgomery.

But, so far this offseason has been about as disappointing as it can get for the Cubs. So far, their opportunities to add superstar talent has come up short.