The Cubs’ annual offseason convention took place over the weekend and there were many takeaways from Cubs Con 2024. This past weekend marked the first major organizational outing in which new manager Craig Counsell appeared in front of Cubs fans. There was plenty to like about what the new skipper said, with much optimism on the forefront for the spring. While there was a decent amount of substance provided by multiple figures throughout the club, these were some of the takeaways that drew intrigue from fans everywhere.
Takeaways from Cubs Con 2024
Players Advocating for Bellinger
There is nothing new to the Cubs organization in terms of hearing outside noise regarding Cody Bellinger this offseason. The slugger revived his career on a one-year deal in 2023, and anyone who supports the Cubs wants to see him return. While this isn’t an outlandish take to have, what’s intriguing is the fact that multiple players, including Dansby Swanson, are pushing hard for management to make a move on Belli.
Dansby Swanson at #CubsCon:
“Before we get to next year, we have to re-sign Belli.”
(📸: @WatchMarquee) pic.twitter.com/UcTKeOe6SD
— Cubs Zone (@CubsZone) January 13, 2024
It has come to the surface that the locker room appreciated Belli’s presence this past season. His success on the field was a fantastic bonus, but he was great for this organization both on and off the field.
Having a handful of players find ways to sneak in comments regarding Bellinger was something most fans were not expecting. It’s not like they were required to do so, and the fact that they did speaks volumes to how badly they want Bellinger back in Wrigleyville.
Counsell Sees Morel’s Value
A major question mark entering the offseason was how the Cubs would use Christopher Morel in 2024. A follow-up question could be asked on if Morel would be here this season, amid all of the trade rumors.
Counsell reassured fans at Cubs Con that Morel will be a major part of the plan to succeed in 2024. The new skipper reiterated the need to find him a home on the diamond. He is a believer that good players find themselves on the field, and Morel fits that description.
Morel’s versatility is a great thing to have, but so far at the beginning of his career, he appears to be a “jack of all trades but master of none” on defense. It’s the spark that he can provide with his bat that keeps fans coming back for more. Many within the organization believe that Morel can keep his strikeout numbers down as long as the reps are there.
Following the acquisition of Michael Busch, a platoon at third base is a viable option to start for Morel. That will not be enough for him, as everyday reps won’t be achieved that way.
Ironically enough, the Bellinger sweepstakes could impact Morel mightily. If Bellinger returns, that third base platoon with Busch appears more likely. If he decides to go elsewhere, that could slide Busch over to first base. This would then open up potential everyday opportunities for Morel at third.
The Offseason is About Halfway Done for Management
Cubs President Jed Hoyer on ESPN 1000: “We’re in the 4th or 5th inning of our offseason.”
— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) January 12, 2024
This provides some hope for fans who might not be pleased with the lack of moves made thus far. A few major insiders believe that after Cubs Con, the organization may have another move or two in them. The Cody Bellinger domino appears to be what the front office is waiting on. If he chooses to stay in Chicago, would the Cubs even bother to go after another “big fish” in the open market? Or would they add only a few smaller pieces alongside Bellinger and call it an offseason?
If Bellinger goes to another suitor, names like Matt Chapman and Rhys Hoskins have been floated around. While they both would fill some needs in the middle of the order, management does not want to block the route of any young infielder in the farm system.
Josh Hader is another name that would make some sense for the Cubs, whether they add Bellinger back or not. It would be a reunion for the closer and his former manager, who spent time together in Milwaukee. Hader’s presence would also solidify the Cubs bullpen as one of the best in the National League. Slide Adbert Alzolay to the setup role and now you’re cooking.
Cubs Con provided fans with some face-to-face insight on what to look forward to in 2024. While there is still work to be done, there is a firm plan in place to see this team grow from a season ago. The finishing touches to this roster will be made in the coming weeks, right before pitchers and catchers report. All fans can do until then is be patient.
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