Chicago Cubs President Jed Hoyer reflected on the 2025 season, expressing disappointment but also pride in the team's performance, discussing offseason plans, player evaluations, and the importance of defense and pitching, while emphasizing the need for continuous improvement and team stability.
Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer is facing criticism for his offseason strategy, which includes adding players like Matthew Boyd and Eli Morgan to the roster but avoiding high and mid-range free agents. Rumors suggest potential trades involving key players like Cody Bellinger and Seiya Suzuki for Kyle Tucker, despite Tucker's impending free agency in 2025. The Cubs' cautious spending, staying well below the luxury tax threshold, raises concerns about their competitiveness and fan engagement, especially with rising ticket prices and dwindling goodwill from their 2016 World Series win.
The Chicago Cubs, currently holding a modest 30-31 record and in the playoff picture, are looking to add a big bat before the 2024 trade deadline. President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer has expressed the need for more home-run power and is exploring options to improve the team's offensive output, particularly at third base, catcher, or designated hitter. The Cubs have struggled offensively over the past month, and Hoyer's flexibility in player positions could influence their trade targets.
Cubs President Jed Hoyer praised Pete Crow-Armstrong's recent stint in the majors, highlighting his defensive prowess and improved decision-making at the plate. Despite his potential, Crow-Armstrong was optioned back to Triple-A Iowa to get regular at-bats, especially with Cody Bellinger returning to center field. Hoyer emphasized that the move was not a demotion but a step in Crow-Armstrong's development.
Cubs President Jed Hoyer admits that the team needs to perform better than projections for a successful season, raising questions about their lack of aggressive moves in free agency. While big-name signings may have been out of reach, several players signed low-risk, short-term deals that could have bolstered the team without significantly impacting long-term plans. The Cubs' focus on staying under the luxury tax threshold for flexibility raises concerns about their commitment to fielding a competitive team, despite the availability of viable options in free agency.
Chicago Cubs president Jed Hoyer remains open to adding free agents as the team's focus on improving from within continues. The Cubs are in the midst of a methodical rebuild and are considering various free agents, including Cody Bellinger. While the team has made some under-the-radar acquisitions, they are still open to adding more players to the roster. Hoyer emphasizes the importance of the team's young players stepping up and establishing themselves as key contributors.
The Chicago Cubs' braintrust of President Jed Hoyer, GM Carter Hawkins, and new Manager Craig Counsell discussed their plans for Spring Training, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and developing young talent. They addressed ongoing negotiations with free agents, highlighted the team's deep roster, and expressed optimism for the upcoming season. Overall, the press conference provided insight into the team's focus and preparations for the 2024 season.
In 2020, the Chicago Cubs made several trades, including acquiring Alfonso Rivas, Casey Sadler, Travis Lakins Sr., Jose Martinez, Andrew Chafin, Josh Osich, Cameron Maybin, and Zach Davies, Owen Caissie, Reginald Preciado, Ismael Mena, and Yeison Santana. These trades resulted in mixed outcomes, with some players not performing well for the Cubs and others showing potential. The most controversial trade was the acquisition of Zach Davies, Owen Caissie, Reginald Preciado, Ismael Mena, and Yeison Santana from the Padres for Yu Darvish and Victor Caratini, which was seen as a cost-cutting move by ownership. Overall, the 2020 trades were deemed as a D grade year for the Cubs.
The Chicago Cubs missed out on signing Shohei Ohtani, who chose the Los Angeles Dodgers with a 10-year, $700 million deal. Cubs fans are disappointed, but the focus now shifts to what moves Jed Hoyer, the Cubs' general manager, will make in the offseason. Hoyer has been cautious in free agency, preferring to build through the team's system and smart trades. However, fans are eager for the Cubs to make a big splash and acquire a middle-of-the-order bat. The options are limited, but Hoyer will likely make moves to upgrade the team, including targeting players like Tyler Glasnow and exploring trade options. The Ohtani signing is expected to kickstart a busier offseason for many teams.
Chicago Cubs executive Jed Hoyer confronted MLB reporter Bob Nightengale over his claim that the Cubs were out of the race for Shohei Ohtani. Hoyer was unhappy with Nightengale's use of high-level sources and the potential damage it could cause to the team's negotiations. The Cubs had been considered contenders for Ohtani, but Nightengale's report suggested they were no longer in the running. Hoyer dismissed the reports and emphasized that he would not discuss ongoing discussions or meetings regarding free agents.
Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer and USA Today baseball reporter Bob Nightengale had a heated exchange after Nightengale reported that the Cubs are out of the Shohei Ohtani sweepstakes. Nightengale's report cited the Dodgers and Blue Jays as co-favorites for Ohtani, with the Giants and Angels still in the hunt. Hoyer denied the report and stated that there is nothing to report regarding Ohtani.
Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer faces the challenge of constructing a roster that can win in 2024 while also developing young players and ensuring long-term success. With a solid foundation in place, including talented players like Dansby Swanson and Nico Hoerner, Hoyer must make impactful additions to the team while giving his manager, Craig Counsell, enough flexibility to allow young players to learn and grow. Hoyer's decisions will have far-reaching consequences beyond next season, as he aims to build a sustainable organization.
Chicago Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts has shown a willingness to make bold moves to improve the team, as evidenced by the hiring of Craig Counsell as the new manager. Ricketts approved a massive investment in Counsell, who was pursued by multiple teams, including the New York Mets and Cleveland Guardians. Ricketts' track record includes hiring Theo Epstein, expanding the front office, and authorizing big contracts for managers like Joe Maddon. Despite the disappointment of missing the playoffs, Ricketts believes the Cubs are on the cusp of greatness and is committed to building a winning team.
Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer called the decision to fire David Ross and hire Craig Counsell as the team's new manager "the best thing for the fan base." Hoyer acknowledged that it was a difficult decision but believed that Counsell, who was signed to a five-year, $40 million deal, is one of the top managers in the game. Hoyer praised Counsell's ability to maximize a roster's potential and navigate the regular season, even though the Brewers never made a World Series under his leadership. The Cubs hope that Counsell's skills will help them capitalize on their opportunities and make a postseason run. Hoyer also addressed Counsell's high salary, stating that the manager's role is challenging and requires exceptional people management and strategic skills. While the Cubs are expected to be active in the free agent and trade markets, Hoyer clarified that Counsell's hiring does not necessarily indicate a bold offseason approach.
The Chicago Cubs are facing a transformative moment as they enter the offseason, with a sense of urgency to trade prospects for immediate talent and make a push for the playoffs. While the team's payroll is projected to settle just below the luxury-tax threshold, there is a belief that the Cubs should not let financial constraints hinder their pursuit of success. The organization has a strong foundation of young talent and payroll flexibility, and there is a willingness to exceed the luxury tax if it aligns with the team's strategic goals. The Cubs have previously shown a willingness to go over the luxury tax, and now is the time to prioritize winning and take advantage of their advantageous position.