Last offseason, Brewers manager Craig Counsell made a controversial move by leaving Milwaukee to take over as the Chicago Cubs’ new skipper. While some criticized him for disloyalty, the Brewers got the upper hand by clinching the NL Central title.
Now, Counsell and the Cubs are out for revenge. A great way to achieve that would be to sign top free agents this winter—especially former Brewers Counsell once coached. This would not only boost the Cubs’ roster but also weaken Milwaukee’s. Fortunately, the upcoming free agency class offers some intriguing options.
3. C Gary Sanchez
While not a game-changer, Gary Sanchez would be a solid addition in a position of need. The Cubs’ current catcher, Miguel Amaya, struggled last season, posting a .233/.291/.362 slash line and showing poor defensive metrics. Sanchez, though not elite, is an upgrade. His .213/.301/.379 line and better defensive numbers, particularly in pop time and framing, would provide much-needed depth behind the plate. Although Sanchez didn’t play under Counsell in Milwaukee, his experience would be a valuable asset to Chicago’s catching corps.
2. SS Willy Adames
Now onto a more exciting target: shortstop Willy Adames. Adames is a dynamic player who had a standout season, hitting .252/.332/.470 with 32 home runs and 111 RBIs. Adding him to the Cubs would be a significant boost, as he combines offensive power with leadership and NL Central experience. Milwaukee will aggressively try to retain him, but the Cubs could strike a blow by bringing him to Chicago.
1. SP Corbin Burnes
The crown jewel of this list is Corbin Burnes, a former Brewer and current Orioles ace. Signing Burnes would be a game-changer for the Cubs’ rotation. Burnes, one of the most dominant pitchers in the league, has a strong connection with Counsell, making a reunion in Chicago a tempting prospect. It would also deal a crushing blow to the Brewers if Burnes returned to the NL Central, this time in a Cubs uniform, and dominated for years to come.