The Chicago Cubs find themselves at a crossroads, preparing for the upcoming season with a roster that promises stability and potential. With every position-player starter under contract for 2024, the Cubs are positioned for consistency, a welcome change after several tumultuous years. However, their path forward is nuanced, with strategic decisions needed to bolster both immediate and long-term success.
In 2021, the Cubs had a disappointing 71-91 record, prompting team president Jed Hoyer to initiate a strategic sell-off. This move aimed to rebuild the team, a plan that began with back-to-back 83-win seasons following the overhaul. While not yet back to their former glory, the results have shown signs of progress—progress that the Cubs management hopes to build upon without rushing into major free-agent bids.
Challenges on the Offensive Front
The Cubs’ offensive stats from last season reveal gaps that need addressing. Ranking 12th in runs and 10th in on-base percentage demonstrates competence but is overshadowed by their lack of power at the plate, where they sat 21st in home runs. With no player managing more than 25 homers, the necessity for increased offensive production is evident.
While the Cubs are not expected to aggressively pursue marquee players like Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes, tweaks to the roster could offer offensive upgrades. The recent decision by Cody Bellinger to exercise his player option stabilizes the outfield, but additional power could be the key to elevating their lineup. The market is open, particularly with the availability of free agents such as Anthony Santander and potentially exploring trade targets that could fit their strategic vision.
Strong Rotation Foundations
On the mound, the Cubs show significantly more promise. Their rotation notably ranked sixth in ERA and 12th in innings pitched last season, demonstrating a solid foundation. However, enhancing the rotation still remains a priority as the offseason progresses. The team’s deep farm system is a critical asset that could support such moves, involving potential trade pieces like Nico Hoerner, Ian Happ, and Jameson Taillon.
In pursuit of strengthening their pitching arsenal, possible trade targets have emerged, such as Max Fried, Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, Nathan Eovaldi, and Walker Buehler. These prospects, if acquired, could provide the Cubs with the requisite firepower to contend more aggressively in their division.
Eyes on the Future
The catcher position is another area poised for transition. Miguel Amaya is currently set as the bridge to promising prospect Moises Ballesteros. However, the potential addition of a veteran catcher like Travis d'Arnaud in free agency might provide invaluable experience and support during this transitional phase. Additionally, Roki Sasaki has garnered interest from the Cubs, indicating their proactive approach to building a future-facing roster.
The reluctance to make a concerted push for Rafael Devers, viewed as a high-profile yet unlikely acquisition, aligns with the Cubs' prudent free-agency strategy. By focusing on players that not only fit their budget but also complement their budding roster, the Cubs appear committed to methodical growth rather than sweeping, high-risk expenditures.
As the Cubs maneuver through free agency and trade opportunities, their deep farm system and strategic conservatism are their primary allies. The intricate balance of maintaining stability while selectively injecting new talent will determine if the Cubs can transcend their recent middling performance and recapture former heights. For this franchise, patience might just be the ticket back to October baseball.