3 moves for the Chicago Cubs this offseason
By David Hill
The Chicago Cubs entered the season in a relatively odd spot. They had traded Yu Darvish as an attempt to cut payroll, but still had the pieces to potentially contend in the NL Central. The Cubs were in first in the division as late as June 24 before completely falling apart, leading to a fire sale and a fourth place finish in the division.
But one had to see that coming. Any team that gave a combined 72 starts to Zach Davies, Alec Mills, and Jake Arrieta was going to be in trouble anyway. The fact that it took almost half the year before the Cubs’ pitching issues caused an implosion is a bit surprising.
How the Chicago Cubs can contend once more
The Cubs are not ready to embrace mediocrity again. They have plans to retool this offseason, looking to contend in the NL Central once more with their eyes on the postseason. Given the status of the division, where there is not a clearcut favorite moving forward, it is entirely possible that happens.
How can the Chicago Cubs end up contending next season? Let’s take a look at three moves they should make for 2022.
Add pitching and do not stop
The Chicago Cubs have three players under contract for the 2022 season at a total of $38.5 million. Their arbitration class, provided they extend the offer to those players, is projected for another $30.8 million. In theory, the Cubs have plenty of payroll to work with.
This gives the Cubs a chance to fix their biggest issue – their pitching staff. Any team that has Kyle Hendricks as their de facto ace is likely going to be in trouble. Likewise, the bullpen is a disaster, and in desperate need of upgrades.
Fortunately, there are plenty of options. The Cubs do not need to shop at the top of the free agent pitching market to make an impact upon their rotation or bullpen. Adding the likes of Jon Gray or Eduardo Rodriguez, if not both, could go a long way to improving their chances. Should Adbert Alzolay develop as the Cubs hope, they could suddenly have a solid starting rotation next year.
The same can be said with the bullpen. It would make sense for the Cubs to bring a pitcher such as Andrew Chafin back into the fold, especially if the A’s decline his option. There are several closers that will be available in free agency, and the Cubs could steal Craig Kimbrel back from the White Sox once they place him on the trade block.
If the Chicago Cubs are looking to contend in 2022, they will need to remake their pitching staff. Fortunately, there are plenty of options out there.