In an insightful article on the website MLBTrade Rumors, writer Tim Dierkes broke down the Chicago Cubs potential offseason moves. The Cubs have a lot of good young hitters. That much everyone agrees. They also are in need of pitching. Again, no arguments. Who the Cubs trade is where the debate begins. Two of the most attractive trade pieces are also in competition for a starting job at 2nd base, Javier Baez and Starlin Castro. There are essentially three options for the Cubs.
Trade Starlin Castro - Castro was the Cubs starting shortstop until he was supplanted by Addison Russell, who was acquired in a trade from Oakland. According to Tim Dierkes, " The Cubs prefer Russell and Baez over Castro as defensive shortstops, so it's unclear whether another team would install Castro at short. He did show pretty well at second base late in the year." Long derided for his defense, Castro had a bit of a renaissance at second. However, an up the middle combo of Russell at short and Baez at second would be many pitchers' dream come true. As well, Dierkes mentioned in his article, Castro may be an attractive get for an established team because, "He tallied 529 hits from age 20-22, joining Alex Rodriguez as the only middle infielders to accomplish that feat in baseball history." His regression in the field and at the bat make the choice easier.
Trade Javier Baez - Javier Baez is sublimely talented, massive power and great defensively. The problem is he strikes out quite a bit. That was why he was sent down to begin the 2015 season and he responded. In 2014, Baez struck out 31% of plate appearances in the minors. The past season, he cut that down to 23%. Baez could be traded but, as with Castro, it would have to be very specific, cost conscious teams (ie. San Diego, Tampa Bay, Cleveland).
Do Nothing - Baseball is predictable in its unpredictability. Plans and schemes get blown up and fate makes the moves for you.
