The Chicago Cubs, a storied franchise known for its rollercoaster history, are on the brink of what could serve as a pivotal year. With a mix of stability, depth in their farm system, and strategic decisions looming, the Cubs aim to make notable strides in Major League Baseball.
A Foundation of Stability
After enduring a transitional phase, the Cubs have crafted a roster that emanates stability. Every position-player starter is under contract for the 2024 season, offering the team a reliable base from which to build. This stability is critical as they look to refine a team that just completed back-to-back 83-win seasons after a disappointing 71-91 record in 2021, a season marked by a strategic sell-off under the guidance of Cubs president Jed Hoyer.
Restrained Yet Calculated Offseason Strategies
In a landscape where blockbuster signings often make headlines, the Cubs seem poised to adopt a measured approach to the offseason. They are not expected to actively pursue high-profile free agents such as Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes. However, the team won't lose much due to free agency, allowing for continuity in their core lineup. The recent decision by Cody Bellinger to exercise his player option further solidifies this continuity.
Offensive Consistency and Opportunities
The Cubs’ offensive lineup displayed commendable consistency last season, ranking 12th in runs and 10th in on-base percentage. However, power remained elusive as no player hit more than 25 home runs, placing the team 21st in home runs. This area is one the Cubs will need to address if they hope to provide their dynamic pitching staff with more run support.
Strengthening the Rotation
On the mound, the rotation has been a point of pride, ranking sixth in ERA and 12th in innings pitched last season. Notably, Dansby Swanson emerged as a team leader with a 4.0 WAR, reflecting the quality contributions from the lineup. Yet, there is room for enhancement. With an eye on broadening their pitching prowess, the Cubs are reportedly considering trading assets such as Nico Hoerner, Ian Happ, and Jameson Taillon.
In their bid to bolster the rotation, potential trade targets include promising names like Max Fried, Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, Nathan Eovaldi, and Walker Buehler. Additionally, there is growing interest in Roki Sasaki, a standout talent attracting attention from across MLB, including from the Cubs management.
The Role of Emerging Talent
Catcher Miguel Amaya is emerging as a pivotal link to the future, expected to serve as a bridge until the arrival of prospect Moises Ballesteros. The Cubs’ deep farm system offers hope for sustainable success, and developing these younger players will be critical in meeting the organization’s long-term goals.
Exploring Free Agency
While marquee signings are not anticipated, the Cubs could still explore strategic moves in free agency. Travis d'Arnaud, a seasoned catcher, is one potential addition that could lend leadership and depth. Conversely, high-profile targets such as Rafael Devers are assessed as long shots, indicating the team's preference for calculated, rather than lavish, investments.
Final Thoughts
As the Cubs gear up for the upcoming season, they possess a compelling mix of stability, promising young talent, and strategic flexibility. Though their approach may appear conservative on the surface, the underlying strategy speaks to a commitment to sustainable development and prudent asset management. In a sport where fortunes can change as quickly as the wind on the shores of Lake Michigan, the next chapter for the Cubs could define their trajectory for years to come.