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Troy Tulowitzki was once one of the best players in baseball. He had three straight top-5 MVP finishes, won a couple of Gold Gloves, and is a five-time All-Star.
But serious injuries have ruined most of his career. He hasn’t played a game of baseball — anywhere — since July 28, 2017.
Today, the Blue Jays cut ties with him:
ROSTER MOVE: We've released SS Troy Tulowitzki, making him a free agent.
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) December 11, 2018
That’s an awful lot of money the Jays just ate. Tulo has two years and $34 million left on his contract, plus a $4 million buyout for 2021. So Toronto owes him $38 million, and anyone who signs him now would be on the hook for no more than the major-league minimum.
So seriously, why shouldn’t the Cubs sign Tulowitzki? It could be a minor-league deal for now, since he’s already being paid for the next couple of years, with a MLB roster spot only if he’s healthy and has a good spring training. And if you’re wondering about Tulo’s health:
Troy Tulowitzki is working out at Long Beach State and said to be in best health in a long time. This could be first in a line of moves for the Blue Jays, who continue to look to deal Russell Martin, sources tell Yahoo Sports. Marcus Stroman and Aaron Sanchez could move, too.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) December 11, 2018
If he’s healthy, he could be a productive part-time player. He could hold down shortstop while Addison Russell is out (with Javier Baez remaining at second base), and move to being a bench player after Russell returns, if Addy isn’t traded.
Tulowitzki has never played a MLB position other than shortstop, but I’m guessing he’d be adaptable enough to play second, or even the outfield.
He’s 34 years old. This is literally a no-risk contract — if he can’t play, the Cubs could simply release him at the end of spring training with no financial exposure.
Also note in Jeff Passan’s tweet the Jays’ willingness to trade Russell Martin. I posted a potential Tyler Chatwood for Martin deal here in October. I still think it could work, and Martin could provide that veteran leadership the Cubs say they’re looking for. Further, Martin is one of the best pitch-framers in baseball.
I hope Theo & Co. are on the phone to Tulo and Toronto this afternoon.
Poll
The Cubs should sign Troy Tulowitzki!
This poll is closed
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72%
Yea!
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8%
Nay!
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18%
Meh
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