Report: Cubs among five teams showing interest in Jonny Gomes
Despite stumbling through an unimpressive season split between the Boston Red Sox and Oakland Athletics, veteran outfielder Jonny Gomes is generating plenty of interest as a free agent this offseason.
The Chicago Cubs are among five teams showing legitimate interest in the 33-year-old who won a World Series championship with the Red Sox in 2013, according to Rob Bradford of WEEI.com
Gomes, however, endured a miserable season in 2014, hitting just .234/.327/.330 (87 OPS+) with six home runs and a career-low .095 isolated power over 112 games while proving to be a defensive liability in the outfield. The 12-year veteran also struggled mightily against right-handed pitching, and may be viewed only as a platoon player by prospective suitors.
| Split (2014) | PA | OPS | BA | OBP | SLG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs RHP | 117 | 0.510 | 0.165 | 0.248 | 0.262 |
| vs LHP | 204 | 0.743 | 0.276 | 0.373 | 0.371 |
Both Jorge Soler and Arismendy Alcantara are expected to assume everyday jobs in the Cubs' outfield next season, but the club could look to install Gomes as a right-handed complement to Chris Coghlan in left field.