MLB Insider on Chicago Cubs Trading for Shohei Ohtani: 'It wouldn't surprise me.'

The Chicago Cubs are poised for a big offseason, and one MLB insider thinks they have a chance at acquiring two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani.

The offseason rumors just keep on coming for the Chicago Cubs. The team has been consistently linked with a number of upcoming free agents, from the top crop of shortstops to Brandon Nimmo, but MLB Network's Jon Morosi dropped a very intriguing tidbit Sunday.

Speaking on the Parkins and Spiegel Show on 670 The Score, Morosi said that he would not be surprised if the Cubs landed Los Angeles Angels two-way star Shohei Ohtani in a trade this offseason. Morosi cited the fact that the Cubs were one of the finalists in the Ohtani sweepstakes in 2017, and that the NL Central is in a weak position, presenting an opening for Chicago.

Morosi also speculated that the cost could be 'three or four' top prospects and potentially a player like Justin Steele to land Ohtani. The Shohei Ohtani rumors are likely to be among the most intriguing storylines in the offseason after his name was floated in rumors at the trade deadline.

With Angels owner Arte Moreno now potentially selling the team, some have wondered if that means a resolution to the Ohtani situation, whether it be an extension or a trade, comes this offseason.

From the Cubs perspective, it would make sense to bring Ohtani into the fold for a number of reasons. For one, it's widely been reported that Chicago will be willing to spend this offseason, believing they're close to being able to compete once again. 

While Ohtani's deal expires following the 2023 MLB season, the Cubs have the capacity to pay Ohtani like the franchise cornerstone he would be. The 28-year-old would serve the role as both staff ace and impact bat that is needed for the Cubs to compete again.

Chicago also has the prospect depth needed to both facilitate and supplement an Ohtani deal. If, and it's a big if, the Cubs landed Shohei and some complementary pieces in free agency, it's very easy to imagine Chicago back in the postseason in 2023. 

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