On this Valentine’s Day, the Chicago Cubs are looking to add to the “heart” of their lineup. But what happens if no one wants to join them? Can they still win the division? Is it still possible to “love” this Cubs starting nine?
Can You Still “Love” the Cubs Starting Nine?
So far this offseason, the Cubs have not signed anyone to replace several of their starters from last September. Still without Cody Bellinger and having lost Jeimer Candelario, Chicago would be missing 32 home runs, 114 RBI, and 115 runs scored. To this point, only Michael Busch has been signed to fill this void. Not to disparage the former Dodger, but his two home runs last year won’t do the trick. This leads us to the question, what happens if the Cubs fail to sign Bellinger or Matt Chapman? Do they still have enough to win the improving National League Central?
Some BP from yesterday at Sloan Park. #Cubs pic.twitter.com/FZQppQhS8q
— Andy Martínez (@amartinez_11) February 13, 2024
The middle of the infield can match up with any team not only in the division but also in the rest of the National League. Both Dansby Swanson and Nico Hoerner have an OPS+ near 100 and play defense well enough to save any runs others may let by. Christopher Morel shared the team lead with 26 home runs and should improve over his sporadic play last season. Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ should continue to keep their OPS near or above .800 as they did last season. However, is it fair to expect the same type of seasons out of Yan Gomes and Mike Tauchman? These two each contributed offensively with an OPS+ at 100 while only playing sparingly throughout the season.
Can the Cubs Win as Currently Constructed?
The hard truth might be that if the Cubs strike out on Bellinger and Chapman, they may have to overpay for J.D. Martinez or Brandon Belt. It’s unlikely that the front office would go into the season with the current roster. The Cubs ranked 15th in the league in home runs and 12th in slugging percentage. By losing two of their top sluggers, it’s tough to imagine the Cubs staying in the top half of the league in either category. The pitching staff seems to be an improvement over 2023, but not enough to overcome the lack of runs per game. As currently constructed, this is not a division-winning team.
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