Cubs Should Take Chance On Veteran

With limited options remaining on the market, and the Chicago Cubs still in need of upgrades to their lineup, they should look for a deal with a 10-year veteran who played in the World Series last season.

That player is none other than Tommy Pham, who slashed .256/.328/.446 in 129 games for the Arizona Diamondbacks and New York Mets in 2023.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that Pham and the San Diego Padres were in discussion on a deal, but that hasn't been finalized yet. This leaves a chance for the Cubs to figure out a last-minute deal and add a much-needed offensive talent.

While Pham has played the outfield every step of the way and might not want to be a designated hitter at this point in his career, he could be interested in anything given the season starts in a week. 

The need for Pham is clear, especially with the aspirations that Chicago is looking to have this year. With the playoffs being their goal, they don't want to look back and wish they could've done more throughout the offseason.

Suppose Cody Bellinger doesn't have the season he had in 2023, Seiya Suzuki doesn't hit the way he did in the second half last year, and others don't step up.

If that's the case, this offense won't nearly be as good as it needs to be in order to accomplish what the organization is hoping for.

It's clear that the front office believes in this roster as currently constructed, but adding a cheap bat like Pham doesn't pose any risk.

At the very least, he can give them good at-bats off the bench and DH for most of the season.