Chicago Cubs Ace Seeking Extension, In Talks With Team

It seems that the Chicago Cubs are beginning discussions with right-hander Marcus Stroman after he expressed interest in being with the club long-term.

The Chicago Cubs have a solid starter in Marcus Stroman. There is no doubt that he's a top three in their rotation and even at 32, he's a good choice for when the Cubs are struggling with their offensive performance. 

Now, it seems there are talks to take this into a long-term relationship.

According to multiple reports, Stroman is interested in seeking out an extension for his time in the Windy City and is starting preliminary talks with the team. 

Stroman joined the Cubs in December 2021 on a three-year deal worth $71 million. Since taking the mound in the North Side, he's made 33 starts. 

Currently, he's 2-3 with a 2.28 ERA and a WHIP of 1.06 and 44 strikeouts during the 2023 MLB season. Over 33 starts, he has an ERA of 3.19 and a WHIP 1.12. Over the 186 innings pitched with Chicago, he's recorded 163 strikeouts and 53 walks. 

As it stands, Stroman has the option to opt out of his final year with the Cubs but is adamant he wants to stay. 

Out of his eight starts this season, he's put on a clinic. Seven were quality starts. The Cubs, with Stroman as part of it, have the fifth-best rotation in Major League Baseball with a combined ERA of 3.47. 

A fun fact: Stroman started the year pitching 1- straight scoreless innings. That was the fourth-longest stretch to open a Cubs season in modern history.

Ideally, for Chicago and Stroman, it would be in their best interest to keep him with the team for the rest of his career. He's entering his middle-30s, not necessarily the best time to make another team move. 

He is also comfortable testing the free-agent market should the Cubs and himself not come to an agreement. Yet Stroman is a veteran that does will in the Cubs clubhouse and it will be interesting if they can strike a new deal while the iron is hot. 

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