Dexter Fowler Says He'll Become A Free Agent, Will Still Consider Return To Cubs

(CBS) Cubs outfielder Dexter Fowler won't opt in to the 2017 mutual option he shares with the team, meaning he'll become a free agent this offseason.

The move was expected, as the 30-year-old Fowler performed well in 2016, giving himself the opportunity to make a big payday on the open market. Fowler confirmed this in an interview with ESPN on Thursday night.

"I'm definitely going to be a free agent, but hopefully it happens a little bit quicker than last year," Fowler told SportsCenter. "You can't control what goes on, but I loved my time in Chicago and I'm definitely not counting them out, but we'll see what God has planned for us now."

Fowler was nearing a three-year deal with the Orioles late last February when an 11th-hour turnaround led him back to the Cubs on a deal that will effectively pay him $13 million for one season -- $8 million in 2016 salary and a $5 million buyout as he hits free agency. Fowler and the team had a mutual 2017 option for $9 million.

Fowler hit .276 with a .393 on-base percentage out of the lead-off spot for the Cubs. He also had 13 homers, 48 RBIs and 84 runs in 125 games.

Fowler's ability to get on base was a crucial component to the Cubs' run to a championship in 2016, as he set up opportunities for a lineup that had four All-Stars hitting behind him.

While Fowler indicated he'll still consider the Cubs in free agency, the team must consider the crowded outfield it will have. Slugger Kyle Schwarber needs everyday at-bats, Jason Heyward is entering the second year of his $184-million deal and the talented Albert Almora needs more playing time to take the next step in his development. Additionally, Ben Zobrist may need more playing time in the outfield if the Cubs turn Javier Baez into their everyday second baseman, as they did in this postseason.