The most entertaining storyline of this offseason has been the drama surrounding Carlos Correa. First he was a Giant. Then he was a Met. Now he might be playing for your favorite local Men’s League team. I know my Manito Freebooters could use the upgrade but I’m sure he will probably be looking for more compensation then the adult beverages my teammates usually bring with them. Jon Heyman gave this little tidbit today that the door is open to Correa ending up with yet another team before the 2023 season begins:
Correa has heard from other teams since issue with Mets occurred but he’s focusing on working it out with the Mets for now. (No word on talks/progress today though) @NYPost_Mets https://t.co/5mjshIk2Xt
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 27, 2022
Earlier this month, I was big on the Cubs signing two of the top four shortstop options. I was content with not getting Correa after his signings (or not signings) with the Giants and then the Mets. Dansby Swanson was always one of the two in the combo package so I was happy that the Cubs at least signed him to start building up the next core. Now I think it is time that we revisit the option of picking up two of the four shortstops.
It’s no secret that the Cubs could still use an upgrade to their lineup. The most likely answer is someone who could split time between DH and first base. Most of the sexier names have already signed with other teams. The Cubs are now being linked to having some interest in Eric Hosmer, Trey Mancini, and Dominic Smith. Brandon Belt could be an option but he is coming off a September knee surgery. Trade options are most likely too expensive at this point. I’ve got a better idea though.
Carlos Correa. We already know Correa is willing to move to third base. He was going to do it for the Mets. Signing Correa upgrades the defense at the hot corner while also finding that extra big bat for the lineup. This also allows Patrick Wisdom to move into that DH/1B slot needs filled. At the present, Wisdom is a defensive liability. A Correa signing would put the Cubs in contention for one of the top infields in baseball.
We have heard for awhile now about the Cubs making smart signings and only sign guys if they dropped into team friendly territory. The only way the Correa pipedream works is if he is agreeable to a short-term contract. Think maybe along the lines of a two-year deal with a player option for a third year. Heck, give him an opt out after the first year like the Twins did. It’s very possible that Correa never sniffs the long-term deal that he was ready to put pen to paper for a week ago. The physical issue could be a thing around the league at this point. It might be in his best interest to sign short deals for the remainder of his career. If Correa should choose this route, the Cubs should at least throw their hat in the ring.
As Heyman said, Correa’s current focus is fixing things with the Mets. The fact that he is at least taking calls from other teams proves that the door is slightly cracked open. Jed and Carter should push that door wide open and go after the last remaining big bat on the market. All of this could be a moot point though. Correa and the Mets could kiss and make up ending all of the drama as quickly as it started.
Featured Image: Jay Biggerstaff- USA TODAY Sports
