The Chicago Cubs will target free agent catcher Russell Martin, according to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports. Martin has been predicted to land with the Cubs on a few free agent lists, with one of them being the MLBTR predictions. The Cubs have a lot of money to spend, a young offense, and will need pitching and catching. Heyman says they could also target one of the top free agent starters.
Heyman also notes that the Dodgers are expected to be a player for Martin, and that the Pirates seem intent on “giving it their best shot” to try and retain the catcher. Heyman says that Martin is believed to be seeking a five year deal, and points out that Brian McCann ($85 M), Yadier Molina ($75 M), and Miguel Montero ($60 M) all received five year deals. With the Cubs and Dodgers involved, and Martin seeking five years, it might be very difficult for the Pirates to bring back their starting catcher.
