Will the Cubs re-sign Dexter Fowler?
Chicago Cubs outfielder Dexter Fowler is set to become a free agent, but has not ruled out a return to the Cubs in 2017. The Cubs have finally accomplished the ultimate goal of winning a World Series. While Fowler loves his teammates and playing for the Cubs it could be time to move on after winning the World Series. Fowler hit .276 with 13 homeruns and 48 RBI in 125 games in 2016.
The Cubs seem to be interested in having Fowler return, but they also know they have a bunch of options for outfield in 2017. Albert Almora might become the everyday guy in center after hitting .277 with 3 homeruns and 14 RBI in 47 games in 2016. Almora might not be ready for an everyday role on Opening Day, but he will become a bigger part of the team in 2017. Cubs could sign a veteran outfielder to start in center until Almora is ready to make the jump to starter. With Kyle Schwarber coming back in 2017 that's another guy that will need an everyday role in the outfield.
While Cubs fans will be disappointed by this I don't see Fowler returning in 2017. The Cubs want to look towards the future and get guys like Almora more playing time and let them develop at the major league level. Fowler is ready to sign a deal worth 12-15 million a year and the Cubs don't need to be spending that kind of money on a guy they don't 100% need. Seeing Fowler leave is sad for Cubs fans, but it's what is best for the team long term.
