Stability in the Windy City: Cubs’ Current Roster Sets Stage for Upcoming Season
As the Chicago Cubs look ahead to the 2024 season, a remarkable transformation has taken place within the organization. Following a turbulent period marked by significant changes, the Cubs are now poised with a stable roster, offering a strong foundation for future success.
President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer's decision to initiate a sell-off in 2021 came on the heels of a disappointing 71-91 record, signaling the end of an era for some franchise staples. However, this bold move has since borne fruit, with the Cubs securing back-to-back 83-win seasons. These achievements provide a testament to the front office’s strategic vision and effective player management.
The current Cubs roster reflects a commitment to stability, with every position-player starter already locked in for 2024. This continuity marks a significant shift from the uncertainty of past seasons and underscores the organization's dedication to building a competitive future. Notably, Cody Bellinger's decision to exercise his player option further solidifies the team’s core, providing much-needed consistency to their lineup.
Despite a firm foundation, the Cubs aren't projected to actively pursue major free agents like Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes. Instead, the franchise appears focused on internal growth and development, capitalizing on its deep farm system to fuel future success. This approach also mitigates the risk associated with free agency, particularly since the Cubs aren’t losing much to the market this offseason.
Strengths and Areas of Opportunity
Analyzing the Cubs' performance last season reveals a mixed bag, with promising strengths and evident opportunities for improvement. The team ranked 12th in runs and 10th in on-base percentage, indicating a competitive offensive strategy. Yet, the absence of any player hitting more than 25 home runs underscores a glaring gap in power hitting, reflected in the squad's 21st-place finish in home runs.
The Cubs’ pitching rotation, however, presents a brighter picture. Ranking sixth in ERA and 12th in innings pitched, the starting pitchers have established a reliable backbone for the team. Anchored by players like Dansby Swanson, who led the team with a 4.0 WAR, the rotation’s effectiveness provides a solid platform on which the franchise can build.
Looking Towards Transactions
Open to bolstering their existing strengths, the Cubs have potential trade pieces in Nico Hoerner, Ian Happ, and Jameson Taillon. These players offer the Cubs flexibility in the offseason trade market, with intriguing potential targets being eyed such as Max Fried, Logan Gilbert, George Kirby, Nathan Eovaldi, and Walker Buehler. Such acquisitions could inject fresh talent into the rotation, propelling the Cubs closer to postseason contention.
Moreover, international talent is on the Cubs' radar, with Roki Sasaki garnering interest. His addition could provide a refreshing boost to the roster, introducing new dynamics to the Cubs’ pitching core. Also, catcher Miguel Amaya is seen as a bridge for Moises Ballesteros, who remains one of the most promising prospects the Cubs are eager to develop into a future cornerstone of the franchise.
Free Agency and Unlikely Acquisitions
With the free agency market unfurling its usual intrigue, Anthony Santander's entry as a free agent opens opportunities for interested teams, while Travis d'Arnaud emerges as a potential addition to the Cubs’ lineup. However, high-profile players like Rafael Devers are unlikely to don the Cubs' stripes, given the organization's current strategic direction and financial prudence.
The Cubs' strategy appears clear: maintain core stability while exploring calculated risks in trades and farm system promotions. This balanced approach reflects an understanding of the team's current capabilities and future aspirations. With a season of stability and growth under their belt, the Cubs are well-positioned to be a formidable force in the competition ahead.