The Chicago Cubs find themselves at a pivotal juncture, navigating the aftermath of a transformative period initiated by team president Jed Hoyer in 2021. With a 71-91 record that year, the decision to begin a sell-off led to a roster reconstruction aimed at future stability and success.
Fast forward to the present day, and the Cubs have experienced modest gains with back-to-back 83-win seasons. This improvement constitutes a foundation for ongoing development, backed by a stable roster that assures every position-player starter is under contract for 2024. Yet, as the off-season progresses, the Cubs face strategic decisions that could shape their competitive trajectory.
A Balanced Roster with Subtle Adjustments
Following a season that saw the Cubs rank 12th in runs and 10th in on-base percentage, there is potential for growth at the plate. However, despite these respectable rankings, no Cubs player cleared the 25-homer mark, culminating in a 21st place finish in home runs. This suggests room for offensive enhancement.
The Cubs' pitching staff presents a stronger picture, with their rotation achieving notable success. Ranking sixth in ERA and 12th in innings pitched, the rotation provides a reassuring foundation around which the club can build. Key contributors like Dansby Swanson, who led the team with a 4.0 WAR, underscore the depth and talent embedded within the current roster.
Strategic Moves and Potential Acquisitions
As they set sights on the 2024 season, the Cubs face crucial personnel decisions. Cody Bellinger has chosen to exercise his player option, affirming continuity in the lineup. Despite this positive development, the Cubs are not expected to actively pursue marquee free agents such as Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes. This reflects a strategic choice to maintain financial prudence and preserve the option of organic growth backed by a deep farm system.
Trade talks could bring further talent into the fold. With potential trade pieces like Nico Hoerner, Ian Happ, and Jameson Taillon, the Cubs have assets that can be leveraged to acquire impactful additions. Notable targets include pitchers such as Max Fried, Logan Gilbert, and Walker Buehler—each an attractive proposition for bolstering the rotation.
Growing Interest and Future Prospects
The Cubs’ radar also picks up talent overseas, with Roki Sasaki among those attracting MLB interest. Furthermore, the development of catcher Miguel Amaya provides a bridge to the arrival of promising prospect Moises Ballesteros, indicating a longer-term view on positional stability behind the plate.
While free agency presents movement opportunities, the Cubs are unlikely to engage significantly. The likes of Anthony Santander and Rafael Devers, while intriguing, are considered beyond probable acquisition. Instead, focus may fall on more obtainable options such as Travis d'Arnaud, should the team seek veteran presence from the free agent market.
A Measured Approach Moving Forward
As the Cubs approach another season, fans can take heart in a thoughtful, measured approach that seeks to balance current competitiveness with future sustainability. The strategy refrains from risky splurges, preferring to capitalize on existing talent and shrewd acquisitions.
In a league abundant with formidable opposition, the Cubs remain on a path molded by patience and strategic acumen. Jed Hoyer's leadership appears steered by a vision that ensures the Cubs remain engaged participants in the World Series pursuit. The seasons to come will reveal if this approach bears the desired fruit, building upon historical successes with an eye firmly fixed on the future.