Cubs Gear Up for Stability and Strategy Amidst Offseason Changes
As the Chicago Cubs enter another offseason, stability and strategic planning seem to be at the forefront of their agenda following seasons of fluctuation and pivotal decisions. The Cubs ended the 2021 season with a disappointing 71-91 record, a performance that led to a major roster overhaul initiated by team president Jed Hoyer. In the wake of those changes, the Cubs have experienced back-to-back 83-win seasons, suggesting a steady climb back to competitive form.
Roster Stability and Player Commitments
Central to the Cubs’ strategy is the stability offered by their current roster configuration. The team has every position-player starter under contract for the upcoming 2024 season, fostering a sense of continuity that has been elusive in recent years. Notably, Cody Bellinger has exercised his player option, further securing the Cubs’ lineup as they aim to improve on their recent performances.
The free-agent market poses little threat to the Cubs’ roster consistency, as the team will not be losing key players. Additionally, while the Cubs are not anticipated to aggressively chase high-profile free agents like Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes, they maintain an eye on maximizing their roster through tactical decisions rather than headline-grabbing moves.
Offensive Assessment and Areas for Improvement
Offensively, the Cubs have shown mixed results. Last season, the team ranked 12th in runs and 10th in on-base percentage. However, their power numbers leave much to be desired. No Cubs player surpassed the 25-home run mark, and the team ranked 21st in home runs overall. This lack of firepower is an evident area for improvement if the Cubs want to become more competitive against more offensively potent teams.
Despite these gaps, the success of key players like Dansby Swanson, who led the team with a 4.0 WAR, underscores the potential depth within the team itself. The Cubs’ farm system is notably deep, hinting at future contributions from up-and-coming prospects who might bolster the team’s offensive capabilities.
Pitching Success and Trade Considerations
In contrast to their offense, the Cubs’ pitching has been a strong point. The rotation ranked sixth in ERA last season, with a respectable 12th place in innings pitched. This performance is indicative of the solid foundation laid for continued success on the mound.
However, the front office is not resting on its laurels. With potential trade pieces like Nico Hoerner, Ian Happ, and Jameson Taillon on their roster, the Cubs have the flexibility to pursue strategic trades. Rumor mills suggest they may target notable pitchers such as Max Fried, Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, Nathan Eovaldi, and Walker Buehler, showcasing their intent to strengthen the roster further.
Furthermore, international talent like Roki Sasaki has caught the attention of MLB teams, including the Cubs, indicating a willingness to explore beyond domestic options to fortify pitching depth.
Future Considerations and Acquisitions
While players such as Rafael Devers are seen as unlikely acquisitions due to high-profile nature, the Cubs are open to exploring more feasible options. Travis d'Arnaud emerges as a potential free-agent acquisition who could augment the team's depth and experience, especially in the catching department. Meanwhile, Miguel Amaya serves as a strategic bridge until prospect Moises Ballesteros is ready for the major leagues, reflecting the Cubs' commitment to nurturing future talent.
As they gear up for another season, the Cubs are set on a path of stability intertwined with careful strategic decisions. The blend of maintaining a stable core roster, eyeing calculated trades, and developing young talent may just carve a path back to true contention in the seasons ahead. For now, patience and precision remain the guiding principles as they navigate the offseason landscape.