As the Chicago Cubs look ahead to the 2024 season, uncertainty and potential redefine the contours of a team seeking to climb back to prominence. With a 71-91 record in 2021, the Cubs' president, Jed Hoyer, opted for a strategic pivot, initiating a sell-off that would alter the franchise's trajectory. Fast forward to today, the Cubs have enjoyed consecutive seasons with 83 wins, a record that provides hope but simultaneously reiterates the necessity for further change.
A Look at the Current Roster
At present, the Cubs possess a roster that offers stability, with every position-player starter locked in for the 2024 season. This security is bolstered by Cody Bellinger's decision to exercise his player option, ensuring his continued presence. However, despite these stable foundations, the Cubs front office is not gearing up for a pursuit of marquee free agents like Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes. Instead, they are positioning themselves with an eye on tactical improvements rather than sweeping changes.
One point of consistency amid the continual adjustments is that the Cubs aren’t expected to lose significant talent to free agency this offseason. However, the need for reinforcements, particularly in power hitting, is evident. Last season, no Cubs player managed to hit over 25 home runs, a factor contributing to their 21st-place finish in home runs. In terms of runs and on-base percentage, they ranked 12th and 10th respectively, indicating solid but unspectacular offensive production.
The Pitching Edge
On the pitching front, the Cubs rotation has been a steady force, finishing sixth in ERA and twelfth in innings pitched last season. This success can be attributed, in part, to Dansby Swanson, whose 4.0 WAR marked him as a pivotal player. As intriguing prospects emerge from the Cubs' deep farm system, there's a palpable sense of anticipation for increased competition and potential breakthroughs.
Potential Trades and Targets
Jed Hoyer’s willingness to trade key players like Nico Hoerner, Ian Happ, and Jameson Taillon signifies an openness to retool the roster if beneficial deals present themselves. The Cubs have been linked with several pitchers including Max Fried, Logan Gilbert, and Walker Buehler. Moreover, the organization has expressed interest in Roki Sasaki, a player attracting attention from numerous MLB teams, further highlighting their desire to strengthen the roster with elite talent.
Catcher remains a position worth monitoring as the Cubs transition into the next phase. Miguel Amaya is expected to serve as a bridge to prospect Moises Ballesteros, offering a mix of potential and promise. Additionally, the potential acquisition of free-agent Travis d'Arnaud presents another avenue for bolstering their lineup.
Challenges and Opportunities
As they head into the offseason, the Cubs face an intriguing set of challenges. Rafael Devers, described as a high-profile player, might have the star power they need, but acquiring him seems unlikely given current projections. Conversely, Anthony Santander's free agency status could provide a more attainable target, offering opportunities to add depth without compromising future flexibility.
The Cubs have positioned themselves in a way that allows room for growth while maintaining a level of competitiveness necessary to build on their recent 83-win campaigns. The combination of established players and emerging prospects presents a unique opportunity to forge a path back to the postseason excitement of years past.
As fans eagerly await the season ahead, the Cubs management's decisions will be pivotal in shaping not only the team’s immediate fortunes but also its longer-term aspirations. In this evolving narrative, patience and planning will be as critical as any offseason acquisition, as the Cubs continue their pursuit of reclaiming championship glory.
