Chicago Cubs: What if the team really does nothing this winter

Chicago Cubs: What does it all mean?

If the front office really does nothing the rest of this offseason, first-year manager David Ross will have a tall task ahead of him. Looking at the rest of the division, the Cincinnati Reds are making moves and figure to be much tougher in 2020. The Milwaukee Brewers have lost some players but are at least making an effort to replace them. And the St. Louis Cardinals, despite a lack of moves so far, always figure out a way to at least be in contention.

That’s why, as currently constructed, the Cubs sadly might be looking at fourth place in the National League Central. The offense has some stars but lacks depth, the starting rotation is okay but not inspiring, and the bullpen is way too thin for the team to be considered a serious contender at this point.

Of course, if enough things go right, the Cubs could return to the playoffs in 2020. IF Kyle Schwarber builds on a solid end to 2019. IF Kris Bryant stays healthy. IF Jason Heyward can somehow put together a career year. IF Jon Lester and Jose Quintana can recover from disappointing 2019 seasons and find a career second wind. IF Craig Kimbrel returns to form. IF they can find two or three surprise contributors for the bullpen.

That’s a lot of if’s, far too many to bank on. Bottom line: The status quo just isn’t going to cut it. The Cubs are not contenders as currently constructed. Either the team needs to start making some additions, or they need to decide that 2020 won’t be their year and make a couple of deals to improve the farm system and/or add some young players. Whatever they do, they need to do it and do it fast. Because fans aren’t going to be happy with a repeat of 2019 – or worse.