Cubs Reportedly Close to Deal with Eric Hosmer

According to Jon Heyman, the Cubs are close to a deal with first baseman Eric Hosmer. Because Hosmer is being paid by his previous team(s) — the Padres ate money to trade him to the Red Sox, who then DFA’d him — the Cubs would be on the hook for just the minimum salary. It’s possible the two sides are working on other facets of the deal, like a no-trade clause or performance incentives, to provide the veteran with more security.

Eric Hosmer, Cubs are close to a deal

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) January 3, 2023

We’ll have more on this as it develops, including the corresponding roster move needed to add Hosmer. The team may also be looking for another bat because Hosmer doesn’t supply much power, so that’s something to keep an eye on.