While it’s premature to place too much weight on 30-team MLB power rankings in November – before trades and Spring Training injuries reshape the landscape – they offer a glimpse into how media perceive the Chicago Cubs as the offseason heats up.
Several early-offseason power rankings have emerged, and I’d like to share where the Cubs are situated among them.
“Chicago had one decision made for it when Cody Bellinger opted to exercise his option. An offense that underwhelmed in 2024 is now surprisingly locked into a familiar lineup without many glaring openings. That’s especially true if you believe in the second-half surges of Pete Crow-Armstrong and Miguel Amaya. Nico Hoerner’s recovery from arm surgery could impact the starting lineup, but it’s also possible they preferred Bellinger stayed put, as they are now set for another season with mostly the same players who struggled in 2024.”
“Instead, their focus shifts to the mound. A bullpen ranked 26th last year desperately needs reinforcements. Their rotation, lacking a dominant ace, boasts several solid but unspectacular pitchers (they had the fifth-weakest strikeout rate in MLB). Acquiring a bat-missing, high-strikeout closer like Blake Snell could be an excellent move for Chicago. The Cubs need to address these issues head-on in 2024 and beyond.”
