Chicago Cubs: Jed Hoyer’s secret weapon will be free agency

Is this a re-tool or a rebuild? What’s the difference? Looking at the Chicago Cubs lineup, one would be implored to point out that all the stars, minus Willson Contreras, are gone and therefore the Cubs are just trying to not spend money anymore, content with starting over from scratch.

The thought “The Cubs could be in last place and 40,000 people would show up to Wrigley Field every game, what incentive do they have to spend?” has crossed most fans’ minds at one point or another. The fact is, regardless, Jed Hoyer clearly has a plan.

For the pessimistic, this situation is a dream come true. Some of us like to be doubtful so we aren’t let down if something doesn’t come to fruition. Or, pleasantly surprised if it does. “No way the Cubs spend big money this offseason.” “No way they right this ship as soon as next year. That would be too good to be true.” “They wouldn’t even extend their core.” “They dumped everybody for players we’ve never heard of.” “They no longer will or want to be competitive.” Enter Jed Hoyer’s secret weapon: free agency.

The Cubs are currently $46,930,123 under the luxury tax, with 11 more pending unrestricted free agents. They are Zach Davies, Austin Romine, Robinson Chirinos, Jose Lobaton, Matt Duffy, Daniel Winkler, Adam Morgan, Rex Brothers, Kohl Stewart, Andrew Romine and Chris Dominguez, totaling $17,050,500 coming off the books already this season. Assuming The Cubs don’t pick up Jake Arrieta’s $10.0M club option, that total becomes $27,050,500.