Hoyer: Cubs Eyeing Beyond 2024, Setting Sights on Long-Term Future at Trade Deadline

The Chicago Cubs are in a fascinating position heading into the 2023 trade deadline. They’re currently in the thick of the National League Wild Card race, boasting a young, exciting core of players that have fans dreaming of a return to playoff contention. But President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer has been clear: the Cubs are not solely focused on 2023. This year serves as a springboard for a much larger plan – building a sustained contender for years to come.

Looking Past 2024

In a recent interview, Hoyer emphasized the importance of maintaining flexibility for the future. “We are not just looking at this year,” he said. “We are also thinking about 2024 and beyond. We want to make sure we are positioned for long-term success.” This statement underscores the Cubs’ commitment to building a championship-caliber team, not simply a fleeting contender.

The 2024 free agent class is loaded with top-tier talent, including superstars like Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge. The Cubs, with their deep farm system and emerging young core, are positioned to capitalize on this opportunity. However, to acquire those coveted players, the Cubs need to create financial flexibility and secure a roster with a solid foundation.

Data Backs Up Hoyer’s Vision

The numbers paint a clear picture of the Cubs’ strategy. Since the start of the 2022 season, the Cubs have significantly reduced their payroll, shedding veteran contracts and prioritizing long-term sustainability.

• In 2022, the Cubs’ payroll dropped from $186.6 million to $147.9 million.

• As of July 2023, the Cubs are projected to have a payroll of approximately $155 million, with room to maneuver.

These moves, while painful for fans accustomed to high-spending seasons, provide the Cubs with the financial flexibility to pursue big-name free agents in 2024 and beyond.

Trading for the Future

While the Cubs are not actively selling off players, they are certainly open to trades that could benefit the organization long-term. This means exploring deals that involve acquiring young, controllable talent or future draft picks.

Take for instance, the recent trade that sent veteran reliever David Robertson to the Miami Marlins. While Robertson was a valuable asset for the Cubs, the return of pitching prospect Jake Eder and an international signing bonus pool slot represented a win for the Cubs’ long-term future.

Building a Sustainable Future

The Cubs are actively building a foundation for sustained success. Their focus on developing young talent has paid off with the emergence of stars like Seiya Suzuki, Nico Hoerner, and Christopher Morel. These players, coupled with a strong farm system, provide the core of a competitive team for years to come.

The Cubs have also invested heavily in analytics and player development, creating a data-driven environment that fosters growth and improvement. This commitment to player development will continue to pay dividends as the Cubs continue to build a sustainable and competitive franchise.

The Bottom Line

The Cubs’ approach to the 2023 trade deadline is a reflection of their long-term vision. While they are actively competing in 2023, they are not willing to sacrifice their future for short-term gains. The Cubs are building a dynasty, brick by brick, and their focus on the future will pay off in the years to come.

The Cubs’ approach is not without its critics. Some fans are frustrated by the team’s “rebuilding” approach, arguing that the Cubs should go all-in for a playoff run. However, the data and Hoyer’s statements suggest that the Cubs have a clear plan, one that prioritizes long-term success over immediate gratification.

This approach is not new to the Cubs. In 2014, the Cubs embarked on a similar path, rebuilding their organization through a focus on player development and smart acquisitions. That strategy ultimately led to a World Series championship in 2016.

Key Takeaways:

• The Cubs are not just looking at the 2023 season but are also focused on building a sustainable contender for years to come.

• The 2023 trade deadline will be about acquiring young, controllable talent and future draft picks.

• The Cubs’ focus on player development and analytics is a key component of their long-term strategy.

The Cubs’ approach might not lead to immediate success, but it is a proven formula for building a championship-caliber team. With a young, talented core, a deep farm system, and a committed front office, the Chicago Cubs are poised for a bright future.