Nov. 04--LHP Jon Lester
Lester would give the Cubs a marquee left-hander while taking pressure off Jake Arrieta. Lester has pitched 200 innings or more in six of his last seven seasons, has a 3.58 ERA in the American League and has a lifetime 2.57 postseason ERA and 3-0 World Series record.
RHP Justin Masterson
Masterson, like Lester, has an association with the Cubs' front office dating back to their days with the Red Sox, and pitching coach Chris Bosio has a strong reputation for reviving pitchers' careers. Masterson's sinker would be a perfect fit at Wrigley Field.
RHP Jason Hammel
Despite not getting the attention of several top-notch free agents, Hammel could receive healthy multiyear offers from several teams, including the White Sox. Hammel was 4-1 with a 2.35 ERA in seven starts at Wrigley Field last season before he was traded to the Athletics.
C Russell Martin
The Pirates desperately would love to keep Martin, who possessed a .402 on-base percentage. His handling of a young Pirates pitching staff was nearly as impressive. Martin could command a lengthy deal that could cut into the projected playing time of Kyle Schwarber.
OF Jonny Gomes
Gomes, 33, would be a terrific fit because he has played for manager Joe Maddon in Tampa Bay, knows his role as a part-time player and would provide effective mentoring to the Cubs' youngsters.
