Is Howie Kendrick A Smart Choice For Chicago Cubs Next Season?
The Chicago Cubs need help. Not just in finding a new manager, but they will need someone to bring production to the 2B position. Last season, the Cubs deployed four players with Addison Russell, Ben Zobrist, Daniel Descalso, and Robel Garcia. Combined, the four players had 134 hits, scored 77 runs, added 66 RBIs, and slugged 18 homers. Not awful numbers, but if the Cubs are to get back to the postseason, they will need more production.
According to Alexander Patt of Cubbies Crib, the Cubs should be interested in Howie Kendrick of the Washington Nationals. In 2019, Kendrick put up averages of .344/.395/.572 with 17 homers, 142 OPS+, .966 OPS, 146 wRC+ (career-high) and accumulated 2.9 fWAR in 121 games. While that’s been his normal production, Kendrick has come up big this postseason for the Nats which will make him a top free-agent target this offseason.
At 36 years old. Kendrick is not expected to see a huge rise in pay. However, if the Nats make it to the World Series, will they be willing to part with a key member? And for Kendrick, after a solid season and postseason run, will he want to be the main guy at 2B? These are the factors the Cubs must think about before offering a deal.
Hendrick has the experience the Chicago Cubs are looking for as he’s played in 1596 career regular-season games. But, the Cubs can still go the youth route with Russell and Garcia or they can use the youngster Nico Hoerner. This is what Patt had to say about the Cubs’ decision.
There is no doubt Kendrick would improve this lineup in many ways. A veteran of his caliber can add so much to this team. If Theo Epstein wants to go out and bring in an impact bat that is affordable, Kendrick is a good option regardless of what position he plays.
The Cubs are trying to find their way back to dominance and the right move at one of its most important positions could help ease the pain.
Mark has been covering Sports and Entertainment for the past six years. His work has been featured on Bleacher Report, ESPN, Fox Sports, Teen Vogue, and many other websites.
