Chicago Cubs: Will it be a retool or rebuild under Jed Hoyer?

With significant changes on the horizon for the Chicago Cubs, the extent of the changes can determine the long-term outlook of the team.

Jed Hoyer is officially “sworn in” as Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations, as the organization said goodbye to Theo Epstein on Friday. Hoyer, 46,  has a tall task in front of him as he takes over an organization that is in need of some changes after several disappointing seasons in a championship window.

Epstein made it clear in his departure that it was best for the Cubs that they be in the hands of someone who will be around for the long run. The organization is in need of some turnover on the MLB roster and will be looking to restock the farm system and improve on development, which has really hurt the team the past few years. The early indication from every angle is that the Cubs are indeed in for some big changes going forward.

Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reported that other baseball executives foresee a “heavy restart” for the Cubs. This likely involves core player(s) being moved and focus on long-term success. The main question is, are we looking at a “retool” or a “rebuild”? It is important to distinguish differences of both. Both require significant roster moves, but there are differences in what types of changes are made. Right now it seems like either can be in store for the Cubs.