Chicago Cubs: Winter Meetings goals for Cubs management

With the Winter Meetings starting Monday  outside of Washington D.C., the Chicago Cubs looks to build around the team’s core. What can Cubs’ fans expect this year?

The calendar turning to December means two things. First of all, the holidays are right around the corner. Secondly, the Baseball Winter Meetings are set to take place. After an amazing 2016 season, one that ended with the Chicago Cubs winning the World Series, fans are excited to see what presents are in store.

On Friday, the Cubs tendered contracts with four arbitration-eligible players: Jake Arrieta, Hector Rondon, Pedro Strop, and Justin Grimm. Four others were not tendered contracts, and therefore are now free agents: Gerardo Concepcion, Zac Rosscup, Conor Mullee, and Christian Villanueva.

These moves, in addition to the signings of Jon Jay and Brian Duensing, the Chicago Cubs’ roster sits at 35 players. There are plenty of spots to fill. However, their team salary is $118.6 million before arbitration contracts are resolved. With these aspects in mind, what are the goals for the Cubs during the Winter Meetings?

Goal #2: Quality Bullpen Depth

One of the concerns entering last year was the bullpen. While it was filled with quality players, the lack of consistency was an issue. Of the opening day roster for 2016, only three relief pitchers are current Cubs. All three are arbitration eligible.

Travis Wood is a free agent, and desires to find a place in a starting rotation. It is unlikely the Cubs would give him the fifth spot in their rotation, which appears earmarked for Mike Montgomery. However, the need for a reliable left-handed reliever is high. By signing Brian Duensing on Friday, the Cubs have a solid start on building a quality bullpen.

The market is flush with bullpen pitchers, but finding the right combination of players is key. Joe Smith could be a target for the team. Others to consider are Jerry Blevins (4-2, 2.79 ERA in 2016), Neftali Feliz (4-2, 3.52 ERA in 2016), and Marc Rzepczynski (1-0, 2.64 ERA in 2016).

Goal #3: Who bats first?

“You go, we go” is gone. Maybe. Dexter Fowler, the Chicago Cubs’ leadoff batter for the last two years, is pressing his luck and asking for big money this off-season. While his departure is not fully unexpected, it is a whammy to the line-up.

Who bats first? We know who won’t. The middle of the order is set as Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, and Kyle Schwarber. Jason Heyward is in jeopardy of batting at the end of the order unless his swing is fixed. And Ben Zobrist‘s ability to move and score runners is too valuable to use in the top spot.

The Cubs are fortunate to have a wheel full of outfield talent, and added a high on-base option in Jon Jay. The potential lead-off hitter could come down to Jay and Albert Almora Jr, depending on who plays center field. The problem is that neither walk a ton. Even with a career on-base percentage of .352, Jay only has 204 walks. Fowler’s career low was 57 walks, while Jay’s high is 52.

If the team wants to improve offensively in 2017, setting a lead-off batter is necessary. How knows. The Cubs may convince Fowler to stay. But only if the price is right.

Goal #4: Let’s make a deal

The Cubs are loaded with talent. It is almost an embarrassment of riches. In 2017, there will be players are the bench that could easily start for other teams. And, there is talent in the minors that is almost ready for the show. The Cubs can dump some salary, find more prospects, and add depth to other positions.

Theo Epstein and crew can make a deal. Or two. But the question is who are they willing to part ways with right now.

Behind door #1: Jorge Soler. In a crowded outfield, Soler may not get many chances to play. And playing is exactly what he needs to do in order for his potential to turn into production. American League teams whom are looking for a designated hitter that can play some outfield will come calling. Whether or not the Cubs take the offer or go for the next option is to be determined.

Behind door #2: Miguel Montero. Miggy came up large in many key moments in 2016. However, the Willson Contreras proved he is ready for full-time duty. Montero will be a great backup and mentor to the young star, but is that worth $14 million in 2017? He may find a team in which he starts, maybe in Tampa Bay or Atlanta.

Behind door #3: Javier Baez. In a “buy low, sell high” market, is there a hotter commodity than a young infielder that plays incredible defense and hits? And, he showed it on the biggest stage. Baez probably will not be part of a trade, but if a team comes calling, the Cubs will listen. The outfield is loaded, and Ben Zobrist‘s veteran bat and attitude is a must for the team. The battle for playing time between the two players may force the hand of team. But, Baez will garner a prize piece, such as a starting pitcher.

Expect the unexpected

If there is one thing I have learned over the last several years is to trust Epstein’s process. He makes moves as if he were playing chess, thinking two or three moves ahead. His ability to find quality players through the draft and scouting is proven in the result of the team.

With the Winter Meetings starting, do not look for a major splash from the Cubs. There is be a few moves, but nothing to shake-up the National League. There are places for improvement, as they are the prey. Teams know the Cubs are the team to beat now. The status quo will not work. They are talented and deep. The starting pitching, defense, and offense will be among the league’s best. Not much needs to be done.

Next: Ross on the market early; Cubs interested?

With all that said, expect the unexpected at this year’s meeting for your World Series champions.