The Chicago Cubs are entering a phase of tempered optimism and strategic planning as they look to build on a foundation that showed promise in the 2022 and 2023 seasons. Following a dismal 71-91 record in 2021, Cubs president Jed Hoyer embarked on a significant team overhaul. This decision has since led to two consecutive 83-win campaigns, signaling a potential upward trajectory for the franchise.
Roster Continuity and Stability
A notable aspect of the Cubs' lineup heading into 2024 is its stability—every position-player starter is under contract, which provides a rare sense of continuity in a league often marked by constant change. Former NL MVP Cody Bellinger’s choice to exercise his player option further solidifies the team’s core. Despite this stability, however, the Cubs have shown a conservative approach in the free agency market, not projected to aggressively pursue top-tier names like Juan Soto and Corbin Burnes. This measured approach is partly because the team will not be heavily affected by free agency departures this offseason.
Offensive and Pitching Insights
The Cubs’ offense had middling success last season, ranking 12th in runs and 10th in on-base percentage. However, power was an issue, with no player hitting more than 25 home runs, contributing to a modest 21st ranking in team home runs. On the pitching side, Chicago’s rotation proved more robust, finishing sixth in ERA and 12th in innings pitched, showcasing a balanced but not overwhelming staff performance.
Dansby Swanson was a standout contributor, boasting a team-leading 4.0 WAR. Swanson's consistent output highlights the presence of reliable individual talent amidst the collective need for improvement in power hitting.
On the Trading Table
In a bid to improve their prospects, the Cubs might look into the trade market, considering players like Nico Hoerner, Ian Happ, and Jameson Taillon as assets to potentially move. Such trades could bring in pitchers like Max Fried, Logan Gilbert, or perhaps even talents such as George Kirby, Nathan Eovaldi, and Walker Buehler. The potential acquisition of these players could bolster a rotation that has already shown considerable promise.
The Cubs’ deep farm system is another area of strength and could play a significant role in future trades, as it offers the ability to leverage young talent to attract more immediate on-field contributors. Additionally, Roki Sasaki has emerged as a player drawing interest from Chicago, representing a potential international expansion of their pitching cadre.
Future Behind the Plate
Behind the plate, Miguel Amaya stands as a crucial piece bridging the gap until Moises Ballesteros, a promising prospect, is ready to ascend to the big leagues. This transition period is indicative of the Cubs’ strategic patience, balancing present needs with future potential.
Free Agency and Potential Additions
As the Cubs ponder free agency, they are keeping an eye on individuals like Travis d'Arnaud who could provide depth and experience. Meanwhile, Anthony Santander's status as a free agent opens avenues for potential offensive enhancements. However, high-profile acquisitions such as Rafael Devers appear unlikely, as the Cubs maintain a reserved stance in eyeing the top echelons of available talent.
With strategic judiciousness, the Cubs seem intent on reinforcing their roster through well-calculated trades rather than marquee free agent signings. This strategy, coupled with a solid core of returning players and promising young talent, positions the Cubs as a team to watch as they seek to convert hopeful prospects into tangible success on the field.