Might the Chicago Cubs have bolstered a starting pitching rotation that featured Jon Lester, Jake Arrieta and James Shields? If not for the San Diego Padres, it’s very possible as Shields noted that his final decision on where to sign during the offseason was between the Cubs and Padres.
“In all reality, it came down to the Cubs and the Padres–two great managers. I think I made the right decision here. I’m really happy about it. I’m really happy to be a Padre,” stated Shields.
The former Kansas City Royals ace went on to say the final deicsion came down to “winning” and it seems as if he felt he had a better opportunity with the San Diego Padres.
Much of that is likely because the Cubs have a young roster full of talent like Anthony Rizzo, Starlin Castro, Jorge Soler, Javier Baez and more though could be a season or two away from playing for a World Series berth.
The Padres, meanwhile, had an offseason in which they traded for Justin Upton, Matt Kemp and Wil Myers, who could put them in contention for an NL West crown this season.
Though a Jon Lester, James Shields lead pitching rotation certainly would have given the Cubs a chance in the National League Central, regardless of their youthful roster.
