December 5, 2023: Ohtani Sweepstakes

To Shohei or not to Shohei… that is the question. Yes, the big talk during the MLB winter meetings is the Ohtani sweepstakes, and, one of our Chicago teams is in the mix; you know it’s not the Sox… Yes, the Cubs are finally going to seriously start trying to win again this year, and for that, I am happy. Our manager placeholder has been replaced, and now, we look to add some star power to our lineup. Is Ohtani the answer?

Well, Shohei is going to command a massive salary, rightfully so, although half of his value will not be present during the 2024 MLB season; he will only be a hitter. Even so, Shohei is a stud at the dish. Yet, what if he can’t come back and pitch again, the way he used to? That certainly has to be taken into account, as does the fanfare that will come with signing a guy like him. He’s a generational player. The fact that he is not just a top hitter in the league, not just a top pitcher in the league, but BOTH!?!? That’s crazy. Like I said though, when will we see him back on the mound, and will he be himself?

If Shohei is the answer, he may be one of the only answers, due to his massive contract. On the flip side, if the Cubs do NOT get Ohtani, maybe we can add multiple stars. It certainly sounds like either way you cut it, the Cubs will be making some serious waves. Once that Ohtani domino falls one way or another, the Cubs will then go to a plan B… unless they’re already ready to let that Shohei ship sail. I’m glad that the Cubs are involved in these sweepstakes. Honestly, the Cubs should be involved with every free agent star. I honestly do believe that they are serious about making a run at him, but… I wouldn’t be devastated if they didn’t get him… as long as they do get some other guys. At the end of the day, whichever path they take, as long as there’s star power added to this team, I’ll be happy.

Remember, the Cubs overachieved last year with a mediocre roster. No offense to Dansby and Nico up the middle, or Bellinger who was a nice surprise. Steele was certainly a stud at the top of the rotation as well. There were some nice components, pieces that will be at the core of this roster for many years hopefully. Still, it wasn’t nearly enough to really get it done. I knew the Cubs blew it last offseason (purposely because it wasn’t the right time…), but this year, all indications are that it will be different. I’m excited.

I don’t want to count my eggs yet; I’m still in wait and see mode, but in an anxious way… a good anxious way. We wouldn’t have dumped Ross and hired Counsell away from the Brewers if we were just going to F around like we’ve been doing the last couple years. We’ve seen enough to know we have some really nice pieces; now is the time to add… and don’t stop adding, tweaking this team until we’re back in the playoffs, gunning for our 2nd World Series title; yeah, we’re greedy now… haha. Go Cubs!