According to a report from Bruce Levine, the Cubs are closing in on a deal to acquire OF Dexter Fowler from the Houston Astros.
Buster Olney has confirmed Levine’s report.
Dexter Fowler is eligible for free agency after the 2015 season but would fit with what the Cubs have been looking for, a leadoff hitter that hits from the left side and plays center field.
Fowler is a switch hitter and has a history with new Cubs hitting coach, John Mallee.
Dexter Fowler did not avoid arbitration with the Astros prior to Friday’s deadline to exchange salary figures. Fowler filed for $10.8 million and the Astros countered for $8.5 million.
Fowler batted .276/.375/.399 in 116 games for Houston last year with a .774 OPS. Fowler hit 21 doubles, four triples and eight home runs. Fowler turns 29 on March 22.
Fowler has a career .366 OBP and would provide the Cubs speed at the top of the lineup with a hitter than can work the count and get on base. Fowler has walked at least 65 times in five of his last six seasons with just over 100 strikeouts.
According to Ken Rosenthal, Major League players are involved in the deal going from the Cubs to the Astros.
Updated 10:01am CST – According to Susan Slusser, RHP Dan Straily is involved in the deal.
Updated 10:11am CST – According to Jeff Passan, INF Luis Valbuena is involved in the deal.