The Chicago Cubs’ high-profile free agent target has agreed to terms with another team, bringing the saga to a close.
As the offseason began, it appeared like the Chicago Cubs would be in the market for several great players.
Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Juan Soto, and other targets on their list were eventually signed by other teams.
For a while, it appeared that the Cubs might fail to deliver on their promise of assembling a contending team.
Then everything started coming into place.
Chicago acquired Shota Imanaga, traded for a top prospect, improved their bullpen, and eventually re-signed Cody Bellinger.
The only obvious vulnerability on their roster was at third base.
Even though three possibilities could potentially play that position in 2024, they all have limitations that could face new manager Craig Counsell with the same problems that existed last year.
That’s why four-time Gold Glove winner Matt Chapman felt like a natural fit for the Cubs.
He would bring outstanding defense to that position, something the organization values, as well as above-average hitting ability.
However, aside from some rumored interest, nothing happened beyond that.
Those speculations can now be formally put to rest, as Jon Heyman of The New York Post revealed that the San Francisco Giants have agreed to a three-year, $54 million contract with Chapman.
According to Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, there are opt-outs after the first two seasons, with him earning $20 million in 2024, $18 million the next year, and $16 million the next year.
Aside from Chicago, the Giants appeared like an obvious fit for Chapman.
Bob Melvin, his manager with the Oakland Athletics, accepted the managing position with San Francisco this offseason. The talented third baseman will now rejoin with the manager who oversaw his best seasons.
Depending on how the scenario at third base plays out in 2024, the Cubs may pursue Chapman again following winter if he has a solid season and chooses to leave.
One of their best prospects might also become the starter before the season ends, which would be excellent in the long run.
So, for the time being, the Chapman to Chicago saga has come to an end with this trade with the Giants.
