Chicago Cubs Facing Uncertainty with Rotation as Free Agency Approaches
The Chicago Cubs came up just short of a postseason berth this season.
It's disheartening as one only needs to look at the Arizona Diamondbacks and imagine the Cubs sitting in their position right now, a 2-1 series against the Philadelphia Phillies in the NLCS.
One of Chicago's defining strengths for the better part of the 2023 MLB season was their rotation. Especially once Kyle Hendricks returned and was a productive member of the squad.
Of course Marcus Stroman's collapse and injury didn't help matters, his otherworldly performance to start the season was a glimmer of hope of what he could be. An ace.
Now, that same strength, the rotation, is facing uncertainty as teams head into the winter and MLB free agency.
As for Hendricks, he is almost certainly returning to Chicago next season as owner Tom Ricketts is a huge fan and remains in his corner according to The Athletic.
“One of the great stories of the summer was his return to being as effective as — not quite 2016 Kyle Hendricks — but still a very effective starting pitcher," said Ricketts. "It’ll be Jed’s decision on what to do with Kyle’s contract. But at this point, I would see him coming back.”
Hendricks will make $14.5 million this season if retained. It's not a bad investment, especially of he continues to produce at the same level he did this season upon his return to the mound.
As for Stroman, the team is also expecting to pick up his option and he could opt to remain in Chicago. It's a turn of events after his hot start, but injury and his second half collapse have changed the landscape.
Stroman is set to make $21 million in 2024, a sizeable chunk of money for what will essentially be a one-year deal. Still, if he can produce like he did the first half but for the entirety of the season it would be well worth it.
Justin Steele was also a revelation and should head the rotation in 2024. After that, it's a toss up.
Chicago will have to determine how best to use its remaining budget to address first base, third base, the outfield and reinforce the bullpen all while figuring out how to keep the rotation intact.
Plenty of uncertainty is swirling when it comes to roster construction, but two of the puzzle pieces may already be in place.
