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The World Series just ended. The 2022 baseball season is finally over. The Hot Stove is officially cooking. And the front office of the Chicago Cubs should be big spenders during this offseason.
Recently, the Chairman of the Chicago Cubs, Tom Ricketts submitted a letter to their fans. He wrote:
"“We will be active in free agency and have the necessary resources available to substantially supplement our current roster.""WGN TV
This current roster finished third in the National League Central division with a 74-88 record. This was good enough to be 19 games back from their arch-rivals, the St. Louis Cardinals.
While none of that sounds good – there is hope coming to the North Side. This team did finish the 2022 campaign on a high note. The Cubs compiled a winning record after the All-Star break by going 39-31.
Jed Hoyer, Cubs President of Baseball Operations, recently said:
"“We'll be aggressive to try to fill those holes in the best way possible. I think we can definitely compete next year, and we also want to create something lasting and special.""Chicago Sun Times
Creating something that will last and be special started during the last offseason. After the fire sale of trading beloved players for prospects – the front office signed Pitcher Marcus Stroman to a 3-year, $71MM contract and added Outfielder Seiya Suzuki to a 5-year, $85MM deal from Japan.
The current roster has some pieces to build around. Outfielder Ian Happ is coming off his best season by being selected to his first All-Star game and earning his first Gold Glove. Shortstop Nico Hoerner led the team with stolen bases and had the highest batting average. Super Utilityman Christopher Morel provided a spark during the season when he set a franchise record 22-game on-base streak.
The Chicago Cubs have no reason not to be active this offseason.
This offseason, the Cubs have been linked to numerous high-end free agents. Time will only tell if they can secure a couple of those premium players. All the signs are pointing in that general direction. The payroll figures for this upcoming season show they have the flexibility to make things happen.
According to Spotrac.com, the Cubs spent a total of $167M in 2022. The projected payroll for 2023 is at $126M. These figures do not include any free-agent signings that will be taking place.
The 2022 season for the Cubs could be stated as an understanding disappointment. I would like to believe everyone saw that type of season happening. However, I’m an optimist and believe better days will be coming to Wrigley Field sooner than later. This offseason should see the Cubs active in signings.