Chicago Cubs: A Strategic Rebuild with an Eye on the Future
The Chicago Cubs are navigating a transformative period as they continue their journey from a 71-91 record in 2021 to a more competitive stance in the MLB. With a recent strategy shift initiated by Cubs President Jed Hoyer, the team has embarked on a path that balances stability with forward-thinking acquisitions, all while maintaining a competitive edge. Following the 2021 sell-off, the Cubs have consistently achieved back-to-back 83-win seasons, signaling a potential upswing for the franchise.
Stability in the Starting Lineup
Heading into the 2024 season, the Cubs have established stability within their starting lineup, boasting a roster in which every position-player starter remains under contract. This continuity is bolstered by Cody Bellinger's decision to exercise his player option, ensuring his return to the team. Such stability provides the Cubs with a solid foundation to plan their future strategies and to potentially bolster their squad without the immediate pressure of losing key players to free agency.
Measured Approach to Free Agency and Trades
While the Cubs are secure in their current lineup, they are not projected to actively pursue major free agents like Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes. Instead, the team seems content with the potential trade pieces it already possesses, including players like Nico Hoerner, Ian Happ, and Jameson Taillon. Additionally, the Cubs' farm system offers a deep well of talent that may become pivotal in future seasons, emphasizing their focus on long-term growth.
Though the team is not engaging in high-profile free agent battles, that does not preclude strategic trades. The Cubs are eyeing potential acquisitions such as Max Fried, Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, Nathan Eovaldi, and Walker Buehler, demonstrating a keen interest in strengthening their pitching staff. Moreover, the international market presents opportunities, notably with Roki Sasaki, who is piquing the interest of MLB teams, including the Cubs.
Offensive Strengths and Areas for Improvement
Offensively, the Cubs ranked 12th in runs and 10th in on-base percentage last season. However, their lack of a defined power hitter was evident, as no player hit more than 25 home runs, resulting in a 21st place ranking in home runs. Addressing this power deficit may be crucial if the Cubs aim to rise in the standings and bring more dynamism to their batting lineup.
Pitching: A Beacon of Strength
On the mound, the Cubs have shown considerable strength, particularly in their rotation, which was ranked sixth in ERA and 12th in innings pitched last season. This suggests a solid core that, if further fortified, could potentially elevate the Cubs to even more competitive heights. Dansby Swanson was a particular standout, leading the team with a 4.0 WAR last season, showcasing his critical role both in defense and at the plate.
Temporary Solutions and Future Prospects
Behind the plate, catcher Miguel Amaya serves as a critical bridge to the future arrival of promising prospect Moises Ballesteros. This strategic positioning reflects the Cubs' emphasis on developing their prospects while maintaining a capable roster in the short term. Meanwhile, free agents such as Travis d'Arnaud offer viable options for the Cubs to consider, especially with the recent availability of Anthony Santander. Yet, despite their needs, the Cubs are unlikely to make a high-profile acquisition like Rafael Devers, staying the course on their strategic, and often pragmatic, approach.
The Cubs are presently in a position of relative stability, characterized by a systematic and calculated approach to roster management. In an era where baseball strategies often oscillate between building for the future and winning now, the Cubs are architecting a path that considers both. The upcoming seasons will truly reveal whether this methodical strategy will pay dividends in forming a team capable of contending for the top honors in Major League Baseball.