The Chicago Cubs finally turned heads in free agency by landing Alex Bregman.
And they might not be done yet.
Chicago still has an opportunity to make another significant addition by signing left-handed starter Framber Valdez, who remains the top pitcher available on the market after posting a 3.36 career ERA with the Houston Astros.
Another major factor could work strongly in the Cubs’ favor: their defense.
MLB.com’s Travis Sawchik noted that Valdez should see Chicago as an ideal destination because the Cubs’ defensive strengths perfectly align with his heavy ground-ball approach.
“Valdez is an extreme ground-ball pitcher. His 62% ground-ball rate since 2021 ranks fourth among qualified pitchers,” Sawchik wrote. “He also leads MLB in double plays induced during that span. To fully maximize Valdez’s value, a team needs a high-level infield defense.”
That’s exactly what the Cubs can offer.
“The Cubs boast the best infield defense among Valdez’s primary suitors, thanks to the elite gloves of Dansby Swanson, Nico Hoerner, Matt Shaw, and now Alex Bregman,” Sawchik added. “Using Defensive Runs Saved and Outs Above Average from last season, Chicago stands well ahead of the competition in terms of converting ground balls into outs. The Cubs’ infield posted a combined +11 OAA (12th in MLB) and a +66 DRS (2nd in MLB). By comparison, the next-best contender by OAA was the Mets at -3, while the Giants ranked next in DRS with +39.”
Not all four infielders would be on the field at once, as Michael Busch is expected to handle first base in most lineups.
Even so, the Cubs have plenty of quality options, barring a potential trade.
Regardless of the final alignment, Chicago’s infield projects to remain a major strength. For a pitcher like Valdez, who thrives on ground balls, the Cubs could be the perfect fit.