Cubs Pursue Turner as Veteran Bat After Bregman Miss

MESA, Ariz. — The Chicago Cubs are actively seeking to bolster their offense with a veteran hitter after missing out on Alex Bregman, sources inform The Athletic. Justin Turner, 40, is reportedly a leading candidate for the role. Turner, who boasts a .821 career OPS and extensive experience from his tenure with the Los Angeles Dodgers, would be a more cost-effective option than Bregman’s three-year, $120 million deal with the Boston Red Sox.

The Cubs have also explored a possible trade for Nolan Arenado but sources indicate that the St. Louis Cardinals are unlikely to part with the All-Star third baseman within the division. “Your roster-building never ends,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell stated. “You’re always looking to make the team better. That’s what you’re trying to do every year, put yourself in a better position and a good position to win a lot of games.”

In addition to exploring hitting options, the Cubs have signed pitcher Chris Flexen to a minor-league contract, pending a physical. Flexen pitched 160 innings for the Chicago White Sox last season with a 4.95 ERA. This move adds depth to the Cubs’ pitching rotation.

Dansby Swanson, who has a substantial $177 million contract, emphasized his commitment to play every game this season: “Baseball is meant to be played every day,” he said. The Cubs are optimistic that Nico Hoerner, who underwent flexor tendon surgery last October, will not need to take on shortstop duties this season, as Swanson is expected to play regularly.

Cubs pitcher Matthew Boyd, who was effective in the playoffs with the Cleveland Guardians last year, was signed to a two-year, $29 million contract. Although he hasn’t reached 80 innings in any of the last five seasons, Counsell is optimistic about Boyd’s potential, saying, “There’s no restrictions on Matthew Boyd. We’re preparing for 32 starts.”

Despite limited attention, Cade Horton remains on various top prospect lists. Limited by a right shoulder injury last year, Horton is now focused on his progress this season. “Cade Horton has a lot of talent. It’s about understanding what his goals are,” said Cubs pitching coach Tommy Hottovy.

Kevin Alcántara, a 6-foot-6 prospect acquired from the New York Yankees, stands as a potential backup in center field should Pete Crow-Armstrong face any setbacks. Additionally, Alexander Canario, another prospect from the Anthony Rizzo trade, is out of minor-league options. The Cubs are considering enhancing Canario’s versatility by having him play first base.

Cubs manager Counsell noted the importance of Canario’s performance this spring, stating, “He just needs to have a good offensive spring.” Luke Little, a 6-foot-8 lefty reliever recovering from injury, is expected to ramp up slowly in spring training, with the team focusing on his long-term rehabilitation.