Chicago Cubs Lose Candelario to Reds in Free Agency

The Winter Meetings weren't too king to the Chicago Cubs as they've lost options to make the team better. With Juan Soto going to the New York Yankees, arguably the best available player who was set to be moved finds themselves in a different team than the Cubs. 

Another player came off the board for Chicago as Jeimer Candelario signed a three-year, $45 million contract with the Cincinnati Reds, per Jeff Passan. Given the number of infielders the Reds have on their roster, this was somewhat of a surprising deal. 

Despite the disappointing play with the Cubs, the 30-year-old Candelario is coming off an impressive season. Candelario was traded to Chicago from the Washington Nationals in the 2023 season. 

He hit 22 home runs and drove in 70 while slashing .251/.336/.471. After his impressive season, he became one of the bigger names on the free-agent market. This could've been a direct move for Candelario after the Yankees traded for Soto, even if they play different positions.

This move likely has Jonathan India out of the door for Cincinnati. He's been linked in trade rumors for the past year and with another infielder in the mix, there's simply no room for all of these guys. Candelario has played first and third base throughout his career. 

The addition can make the Reds better for more reasons than just this signing. The team now has tradeable pieces that can help them land a starting pitcher or two. 

Expect them to be in the mix for other Cubs targets, including Tyler Glasnow and others.