The Chicago Cubs are thought to be the best option available at this position in free agency.
Chicago can still make improvements to the team, even with its clear need for talent. Rhys Hoskins, a former first baseman for the Phillies, is one of them.
After injuring his ACL during Spring Training, the slugger missed the entire previous season, but the front office has expressed interest in him this summer.As soon as the Athletics announced their all-free agent roster, Hoskins was the best first baseman available.
When healthy, the 30-year-old is considered one of baseball’s top power hitters. If Hoskins is able to overcome his injury in 2023 and reach his prior level of performance, he will be a steal for the team that decides to sign him.
He’s not quite the same guy as Cody Bellinger, but the Cubs could find themselves in a similar scenario this offseason.
Bellinger had to prove he was still worth over $200 million, and in only one Chicago season, he did. If Hoskins can show that he can play at the same level as before this injury, the Cubs will be able to purchase low for a year.
In a healthy season, he is a hitter that can hit thirty or more home runs. With so many suitors, it seems certain that the right-handed slugger will soon be off the roster.
Bellinger hasn’t signed with Chicago yet, maybe because of rumors that he might move to first base if Pete Crow-Armstrong gets his chance at center field in 2024.