The Cubs Should Sign Brendan Rodgers Next
Over the weekend, the Chicago Cubs made headlines by signing Alex Bregman, a three-time All-Star and 2017 World Series champion, to a five-year, $175 million contract. This move is significant, as it's the second-richest contract signed this offseason and the second-highest AAV of any contract signed so far. However, the Cubs could make a more strategic move by signing Brendan Rodgers.
Rodgers, a former no. 3 overall pick, has had a less impressive career compared to Bregman. He was non-tendered by the Rockies after the 2024 season and later signed with the Astros, who were in need of infield help. Rodgers' performance in 43 games with the Astros was .191/.266/.278 with a strikeout rate of 35.9%, which is below replacement level.
The Cubs already have a strong infield lineup with Matt Shaw, Dansby Swanson, and Nico Hoerner. Hoerner is in his last year of team control, and Shaw, my preseason pick for NL Rookie of the Year, had a 93 wRC+ and 1.5 WAR in 126 games. Rodgers doesn't seem to be a better fit, and his performance doesn't match Shaw's.
The real opportunity lies in the draft. The Cubs have the top two picks in the 2015 draft class with Swanson and Bregman. This is a rare occurrence, as only five such pairings exist in major league history. The Cubs could make history by bringing on Rodgers, as none of the previous teams with top two picks have ever locked up the whole podium.
The top three picks in five draft classes have combined to produce 100 or more WAR. The Cubs' infielders, including Rodgers, are currently ranked 13th in total combined WAR. However, under a weighted system, where the second-best player's WAR counts twice, the Cubs' duo of Swanson and Bregman is already fourth all-time.
The Cubs know the top of the 2015 draft class well, and they could consider signing Rodgers to complete the set. However, Rodgers' performance doesn't match the high standards set by the other picks in the draft. The Cubs should focus on drafting and developing players who can contribute to the team's success.
