Chicago Cubs: Winter Meetings goals for Cubs management

Sep 28, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Chicago Cubs general manager Theo Epstein uses his phone in the dugout before the Cubs play the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 28, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Chicago Cubs general manager Theo Epstein uses his phone in the dugout before the Cubs play the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
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Sep 15, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; From left Chicago Cubs vice president of player development Jason McLeod , general manager Jed Hoyer , vice president of baseball operations Theo Epstein and owner Tom Ricketts talk on the field before the game against the Cincinnati Reds at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

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.

Schedule