The Chicago Cubs are trying to navigate the stormy waters of MLB Free Agency as the Shohei Ohtani sweepstakes heat up. Chicago was originally named as a suitor for the baseball superstar, but recent reports have dampened the Cubs' chances of signing him. Now, president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer is putting those reports to rest.

The Cubs are still in the hunt for Shoe Ohtani

Jed Hoyer addressed the reports with a simple response:

“I don't know where that came from. There's nothing to report whatsoever,” Hoyer said, per Ryan Herrera. The Cubs president's comments imply there is still a chance Chicago could sign Ohtani.

Previous reports indicated the Cubs were no longer optimistic they could land Ohtani. Rumors of the Angels star meeting with other teams like the Toronto Blue Jays likely added to the madness. However, Chicago seems to still be in the hunt.

The Cubs have an excellent market for the two-way superstar, but Chicago's prevalence of cold winter weather could potentially turn Ohtani off. The Japanese two-way star reportedly prefers a warm climate, similar to the weather he experienced as a Los Angeles Angel. Nevertheless, he has not crossed the Windy City off yet.

Chicago has given itself a great chance as a top competitor for Ohtani in MLB Free Agency. After narrowing missing the 2023 Playoffs, the Cubs signed Craig Counsell, one of the best managers in baseball.

If Shohei Ohtani were to sign with Chicago, he would “own the city.” Cubs fans eagerly await Ohtani's final decision as the free agency battle continues to heat up.