Chicago Cubs: How the franchise has changed their course

Success began to breed the desire to play in Chicago

During this time, the team wooed Jason Heyward to join as their right fielder, after signing a significant contract. Epstein also did what it took to bring a championship to Chicago. I’m sure if you ask Cubs fans if trading Torres for Chapman was worth it, most would agree.

The club became more aggressive on the trade front, sending some top prospect talent away in exchange for established major league talent. Epstein shifted the direction of the winds in favor of the Cubs, and it has paid off over the past four seasons.

The past couple of seasons have included another run to the NLCS and a playoff appearance. It has seen the signing of one of the most prominent free-agent starting pitchers in Yu Darvish. The reports of the Cubs involvement in free-agent superstar Bryce Harper remains relevant. It couldn’t have happened without success Epstein has brought to Chicago.

The Cubs have a youthful core filled with some fantastic talent. They continue to post winning seasons year after year. Since 2015, they have averaged almost 97 wins per season.

Epstein has created a culture of winning and success. It is a place where top-of-the-line free-agents hope to be lucky enough to land. For fans, the excitement each season brings is real, and they look forward to that realistic possibility of a World Series championship. Chicago is sure blessed to have Theo Epstein running the show.