Shohei Ohtani has signed a record-shattering deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, putting an end to the pursuit of the most highly-coveted free agent in sports history.

The Cubs, who had reportedly been involved in the Ohtani sweepstakes, now must shift their focus elsewhere, with plenty of needs and an open checkbook as free agency continues.

In all likelihood, the team will target starting pitching help after the departure of Marcus Stroman, but they’ll also need to address concerns in their corner infield spots and in center field, among other needs.

Times are tough for Chicago Cubs fans. Fans were hopeful that they’d add one of Juan Soto, Shohei Ohtani, or Yoshinobu Yamamoto.

With Yamamoto signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday night, the Cubs struck out this offseason.

Now, heading into 2024, they have more questions than answers.

Could a reunion with Cody Bellinger be in the works? Do they believe they can even compete by adding a piece or two? These are all questions that must be answered.

Bellinger is understandably seeking a hefty payday. If Bellinger is not re-signed by the Cubs, then the North Siders have a puzzle to solve in center field.

Chicago has center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong — MLB Pipeline’s No. 1 Cubs prospect and the No. 12 prospect in baseball — but the club also does not want to rush him before he’s deemed ready.

Mike Tauchman offers an experienced in-house option, and the Cubs could explore other short-term alternatives on the open market.