NL Central Rival Viewed as Potential Landing Spot for Former Cubs Slugger

A former Chicago Cubs slugger could sign with a team in the NL Central during the offseason.

The Chicago Cubs will have decisions to make on free agents, whether they be new players or former players. Although unlikely, the Cubs could decide to bring Jeimer Candelario back.

Candelario was traded to Chicago during the 2023 trade deadline and slashed .234/.318/.445. The play was less than desired for Jeimer, who hit 16 home runs in Washington and posted an OPS+ of 125 in 99 games before being dealt.

Now a desired free agent, there will be suitors looking to make a move. ESPN insider Jeff Passan believes a National League Central rival could be a possible spot for the third baseman. 

"All of this leaves people in other organizations wondering if Milwaukee will let the first three months of the season play out before committing to moving Burnes, Adames or even Devin Williams, the all-world closer with two years until free agency and no lack of interested suitors," writes Passan. 

"With the Cubs building stronger, the Reds there, too, the Cardinals ever a threat and Paul Skenes' debut and Oneil Cruz's return about to make Pittsburgh a whole lot better, the Brewers should go for it while they can. And one bat fits their offensive needs, which, at the moment, are first and third base."

Passan mentioned the Milwaukee Brewers' perfect transaction is to sign Jeimer. After the Cubs signed Craig Counsell to be the team's next manager, maybe the Brewers are looking for some payback.

As Passan said, the Central is wide open. Adding a player like Candelario could help the Brewers, or the Cubs if he returns, win the division.