As football season comes to a close, it’s time to shift our focus to baseball. The Chicago Cubs, along with their invitees, are gearing up for spring training in Mesa, Arizona, as they embrace the opportunities that the new year, 2024, brings. The debate about whether the 2023 season was successful or not can now be put to rest, as the focus shifts to the present moment.
It has been more than four months since the Cubs last took the field, and just over three months since we witnessed a pitch thrown in the major leagues. Depending on your perspective, either a lot has transpired or not enough has happened within the Cubs organization during this time. There are still gaps that need to be filled, and decisions that must be made. However, the Cubs enter spring training in a more favorable position than before.
If you haven’t been keeping up with the offseason developments, nobody blames you. It’s important to take the time to unwind and regroup. But now that baseball is back, let’s bring you up to speed before you head to camp.
Craig Counsell Named Manager in Surprise Signing
The Chicago Cubs’ 2023 season ended on a disappointing note. Despite staying in contention for the division title and a wild card spot, they faltered in the final stretch, losing five out of their last six games. Initially, it was expected that manager David Ross and most of his coaching staff would return for the 2024 season. However, that perception changed suddenly. Following a secret meeting conducted by President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer, it was announced that Ross had been relieved of his duties, and former Milwaukee Brewers manager Craig Counsell was appointed as his replacement.
The Brewers had allowed Counsell to explore other managerial opportunities before the expiration of his contract, and he had discussions with teams such as the Cleveland Guardians and the New York Mets. However, once his contract concluded and he remained available, Hoyer approached him for a conversation.
In a move that reminded Cubs fans of when the team replaced Rick Renteria with Joe Maddon in 2015, Counsell was signed to a contract worth over $40 million for five years, making him the highest-paid manager in the league.
This managerial change heightened expectations for the Cubs’ offseason. The decision to replace Ross with the manager of a division rival sent a strong message to the league that the Cubs were determined to win. With ample financial resources and one of the most significant free agent classes in recent memory, the stage was set for the Cubs to make a splash during the winter.
Cubs Swing and Miss in Offseason Moves
The most sought-after free agent of the offseason was the versatile star Shohei Ohtani, known for his abilities both as a pitcher and a position player. Throughout the winter meetings, numerous rumors circulated regarding which teams were in the running to acquire Ohtani. People closely followed private jet movements and speculated based on dinner reservations, creating a captivating pursuit that will be remembered. Eventually, the Chicago Cubs, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers emerged as the primary contenders. In the end, the Dodgers emerged as the victors and secured Ohtani’s services with an immense and innovative contract.
Following Ohtani, another Japanese pitcher named Yoshinobu Yamamoto became the next major superstar available in free agency. The Cubs, Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, and Philadelphia Phillies engaged in an extensive pursuit of Yamamoto. However, he also ended up signing a lucrative contract with the Dodgers. It became evident that the Dodgers were determined to sign any player they desired, regardless of the cost. Although Cubs fans may have been disappointed by missing out on these players, they knew that alternative options were still available for the team to pursue in the free agent market.
Cubs’ Offseason Acquisitions Set the Stage for a Strong Season
Indeed, the Chicago Cubs made a series of notable moves during the offseason, starting with the signing of Japanese left-handed starter Shota Imanaga on January 8th. Shortly after, just before the Cubs Convention, they announced a trade with the Los Angeles Dodgers to acquire infielder Michael Busch, who was regarded as the Dodgers’ top prospect. These transactions marked the Cubs’ initial significant moves in an offseason where they were expected to be active in spending and acquisitions.
On February 1st, the Cubs continued to bolster their roster by signing relief pitcher Hector Neris to a one-year deal. Neris adds much-needed depth and stamina to the bullpen, addressing an area of concern for the team.
Imanaga, Busch, and Neris have been the standout additions of the Cubs’ offseason thus far. However, it’s important to note that the offseason is not over, and if the Cubs aim to compete in the 2024 season, they will likely need to make further moves. It appears that a familiar name is missing from the list of new acquisitions, indicating that there may still be room for additional signings or trades to strengthen the team.
Cody Bellinger’s Contract Impasse Leaves Cubs and Fans in Suspense
Cody Bellinger, the former Chicago Cub and 2023 Comeback Player of the Year, remains unsigned as of now. Bellinger, represented by agent Scott Boras, has expressed his desire to return to Chicago and play for the Cubs. The Cubs, in turn, have stated that they would like to have Bellinger back on their team. However, the main point of contention appears to be the financial terms of the deal.
The Cubs are not willing to meet the salary demands set by Boras and Bellinger. Additionally, it seems that no other team is currently willing to meet those demands either. This standoff regarding contract negotiations is expected to come to an end eventually, with both sides reaching a deal. It would be beneficial for the Cubs to secure Bellinger’s services because if they fail to sign him, it may dampen expectations for the upcoming season. Bellinger’s addition could have a significant impact on the team’s performance and outlook moving forward.
Cubs Still Eyeing Big Names as Offseason Progresses
You’re right that Cody Bellinger alone cannot be counted on to single-handedly save the team. The success of the Chicago Cubs in the upcoming season will depend on the collective efforts of the players already on the roster, as well as any additional moves the team makes before spring training.
While the starting rotation may appear to be set, there are still notable free agents available, such as World Series champion Jordan Montgomery and Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell. Additionally, designated hitter JD Martinez and veteran Brandon Belt are still seeking new teams. The Cubs have the option to explore the free-agent market further or potentially make a significant trade to address their roster needs.
Players like Justin Steele, Dansby Swanson, Nico Hoerner, and Ian Happ, among others, recognize that the foundation is in place for the Cubs to move forward in 2024. However, a few more pieces may be necessary to solidify their path to success. It’s worth noting that in 2014, the Cubs completed their fifth consecutive losing season and went on to win the World Series just two years later. While the current Cubs team is already stronger than the 2014 squad, the future looks bright. It’s quite possible that the Cubs will make a comeback sooner than anticipated and continue to build upon their success.
