Chicago Cubs Reportedly Among Top-4 Landing Spots for Ohtani

The Chicago Cubs may have a real shot to land Shohei Ohtani in free agency this winter.

The Chicago Cubs are going through significant changes already this winter. The hiring of Craig Counsell, and the subsequent firing of David Ross, set the tone early.

The Cubs mean business. 

With major decisions ahead of them, specifically in regards to roster construction, Chicago's next moves will define this franchise for years to come. 

Marcus Stroman opted out of his contract. Cody Bellinger is a free agent after helping transform the Cubs outfield. And Jeimer Candelario is back on the market. 

But the largest decision looming could be whether or not to offer Shohei Ohtani a mega-deal, likely the largest baseball contract ever signed, to come play at Wrigley Field.

According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Cubs are among the top landing spots for Ohtani. The caveat is if he doesn't sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers or Angels. 

"If Ohtani does not sign with the Los Angeles Dodgers or Angels, some executives predict that he’ll end up signing with either the Chicago Cubs or Texas Rangers, while the San Francisco Giants will offer the most money," writes Nightengale.

Chicago made a huge press for Ohtani when he originally made his way into the league from the NPL. It appears the interest still remains, if not even on a grander scale. 

Hiring a manager like Counsell could be a huge positive for Ohtani who is interested in joining a storied club but also in winning championships. Something he was unable to do with the Angels despite having Mike Trout by his side. 

There will be stiff competition for his services, but the Cubs will be right in the mix after making all the correct moves to lay the groundwork for a potential deal.