Dark Horse candidate: Chicago Cubs
2016 payroll: $83.2 million
This seems like a long shot, as the Cubs have a plethora of young outfielders in Kyle Schwarber, Jorge Soler, Albert Almora, and Billy McKinney. Those players, as well as the probable re-signing of center fielder Dexter Fowler, make it tough to see the Cubs going after a high-level position player, especially given their need for rotation help. However, if the chance is there, Theo Epstein and Jed Hoyer may pounce on Heyward, especially if a trade involving one of their outfielders were to occur. While Heyward is only 26 he would be stepping into a veteran leadership role for the Cubs, and his bat would be a welcome addition to a lineup that already boasts Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant.
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