The Cubs made another splash in the free agent market today, signing former Cardinals outfielder Jason Heyward to an 8-year, $184 million contract.  The deal gives Heyward two opportunities to opt out, once after 3 years and again at an as-yet-unannounced timeframe.

Heyward becomes the team’s new center fielder, which is not his natural position.  Given that most of his WAR value comes from his stellar defense and his baserunning abilities, playing him in center is likely to blunt his effectiveness.  That said, the winter is early and he could slide back over to right field should Jorge Soler be moved in a deal for additional pitching.

In addition to adding Heyward (and John Lackey) to their roster, the Cubs also manage to subtract them both from the Cardinals, weakening a divisional rival.  At this point, the Cubs look to be the favorites to take the NL Central next year, if not the pennant.  Time will tell if everything plays out as expected.