Free agent 1st baseman Eric Hosmer is currently in advanced talks with the Chicago Cubs according to numerous reports.
Hosmer was acquired at the trade deadline by the Red Sox, but struggled down the stretch with the club hitting just .225 before going down with a back injury which cost him all but 2 of the remaining games of the 2022 season.
The 33 year old was released earlier this week by the Red Sox making him free to sign with a club of his choosing. Boston is hopeful that highly touted prospect Triston Casas will be able to earn everyday 1st base reps in 2023.
While the Yankees reportedly had interest in Hosmer’s services, the former Padre allegedly rebuffed their offer and has since entered into negotiations with the Cubs.
According to sources the talks have been productive, but no contract has been agreed upon as of yet.
Because San Diego will still be paying Hosmer $13M per season over the next 3 years, any club that signs the veteran infielder will only be required to pay him the league minimum.
While the discount is certainly an attractive aspect of a potential Hosmer signing, Chicago is also kicking the tires on free agent slugger Trey Mancini. The 30 year old hit 18HRs in 2022 as he split time between the Orioles and Astros last year.
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