As the Chicago Cubs prepare for another season, there is a sense of cautious optimism surrounding the team, built on a foundation of consistency and strategic planning. A franchise known for dramatic highs and lows in recent years, the Cubs are entering a pivotal moment armed with stability across their roster and a clear vision for the future.
Building from a Position of Stability
The journey has been notable since Cubs president Jed Hoyer decided to initiate a significant sell-off back in 2021, when the team finished with a dismal 71-91 record. This move marked a departure from the prior championship-winning era and set a course for renewal. Subsequently, the Cubs achieved back-to-back 83-win seasons, signaling a steady improvement while showing the potential that Hoyer's strategy could bear fruit.
A notable aspect of the current roster is that every position-player starter is under contract for the upcoming 2024 season. This level of stability is remarkable and offers continuity and predictability, two key components often missing from successful campaigns.
Cody Bellinger's decision to exercise his player option further cements this foundation, keeping a reliable performer within the fold. Moreover, the Cubs are not anticipated to actively chase top-tier free agents like Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes, instead perhaps focusing on internal improvement and measured external additions.
Assessing Offense and Defense
Offensively, the Cubs present a balanced attack but still have room for growth. Last season, they ranked 12th in runs and 10th in on-base percentage. However, power remained a concern, with no player surpassing the 25-homer mark, resulting in a 21st-place finish in home runs. This gap suggests a need for more impactful hitting, especially in the power department.
Defensively, and particularly on the mound, the Cubs have been performing admirably. The starting rotation boasted an impressive sixth rank in ERA and was 12th in innings pitched. Such performances are vital to the team’s overall competitive stance and will need to be maintained or improved to support any playoff aspirations.
Dansby Swanson stands out individually, leading the team with a 4.0 WAR last season, exemplifying his all-around value and significance to the roster.
The Prospect Pipeline and Trade Strategies
A significant reason for optimism lies within the Cubs' farm system, which is considered deep and promising. Among the upcoming talents is catcher Miguel Amaya, currently acting as a bridge to the highly-anticipated debut of prospect Moises Ballesteros.
Potential moves via trades could bolster the lineup further. Key players like Nico Hoerner, Ian Happ, and Jameson Taillon could serve as appealing trade pieces if the right opportunity arises. The Cubs have shown interest in high-caliber pitchers such as Max Fried, Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, Nathan Eovaldi, and Walker Buehler, indicating a desire to enhance their pitching capabilities.
Additionally, Japanese sensation Roki Sasaki has been attracting attention from MLB teams, with the Cubs among the interested parties. Such international interest underscores the team's broad approach to talent acquisition.
Strategic Free-Agent Options
While not aggressively targeting marquee free agents, the Cubs might explore strategic options such as Travis d'Arnaud, who could provide valuable experience and depth to the roster. The team is unlikely to chase after players like Rafael Devers, aligning with their more cautious strategy.
Meanwhile, with Anthony Santander hitting the free-agent market, the Cubs have another potential opportunity to consider, adding to their pool of choices without breaking from the established strategy.
As the off-season progresses, the Chicago Cubs seem poised at a crossroads. Their approach, driven by stability and strategic talent acquisition, could set the stage for renewed success. Fans will be keenly watching as the team navigates potential trades, player development, and key signings in the coming months, hopeful that a return to the postseason spotlight is on the horizon.