Chicago Cubs Predicted to Land Star Pitcher if He Reaches Free Agency

The Chicago Cubs are among teams predicted to land a veteran pitcher if the San Diego Padres allow him to reach free agency.

The Chicago Cubs are now in a position where they must look to make smart upgrades to their roster after just missing out on the final Wild Card spot this season.

They must be smart because they have a talented roster, but any major acquisitions could push the Cubs past the first luxury tax threshold. 

One area they could look to improve is their rotation. Justin Steele will headline, while Kyle Hendricks and Marcus Stroman are both expected to return at this point. Jameson Taillon was largely ineffective this season, so an upgrade to help address the fourth and fifth spots may be needed.

The Athletic recently postulated that San Diego Padres starter Michael Wacha would be a great fit. . . if he reaches free agency.

Wacha has team options for the next two seasons that will pay him $16 million a year. Both options must be exercised or declined at the same time. If declined, then Wacha has player options for the next three years at about $6 million a year.

Jim Bowden at The Athletic believes that the Padres will exercise the options considering his stellar performance last season posting a 3.22 ERA in 134.1 innings pitched. 

However, if San Diego decides to save payroll, which is a very likely option considering the rhetoric surrounding the team following the season, then the Cubs could swoop in and sign him.

In the same article, Wacha is predicted to receive a two-year, $32 million contract, precisely in line with what he is owed by the Padres if his options were to be picked up.

However, that is a deal Chicago would make to bring another proven, veteran starter onto their staff as they set their sights on the National League Central division title.