TODAY: The deal is official, with both clubs announcing it. For Detroit, catcher John Hicks and righty Joe Jimenez will come up to fill the roster openings.
YESTERDAY, 11:45pm: The sides have completed the medical review, though an announcement is still forthcoming, per Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press (Twitter links).
10:55pm: The Cubs are finalizing a deal to acquire two more pieces for the stretch run. If the swap is finalized, both southpaw reliever Justin Wilson and catcher Alex Avila will reportedly head from the Tigers to Chicago in exchange for infielder Jeimer Candelario and young shortstop Isaac Paredes, along with cash or a player to be named later.
[RELATED: Updated Cubs & Tigers Depth Charts]
Of course, the Chicago (N.L.) farm has been raided of late, with numerous talented players streaming onto the MLB roster as well as to other organizations. The Cubbies are pushing the pedal to the floor once again, hoping to capitalize on a wave of momentum coming out of the All-Star break that has swept the defending World Series champs back into the NL Central lead.
Though Wilson has perhaps elevated his profile this year, owing to a move into the ninth inning for the Tigers, he hasn’t really changed his baseline performance level. He still works off of a mid-to-upper-nineties heater and is generally slightly more successful against right-handed hitters than lefties. And ERA estimators still value him as a low-to-mid-3’s performer.
That said, there are some notable changes. Through 40 1/3 innings this year, Wilson carries a career-high 14.3% swinging-strike rate and has averaged 12.3 K/9 — well over any prior full-season mark. He’s also allowing more walks (3.6 BB/9) and home runs (1.12 per nine) than usual, with less grounders (38.4%) than ever before. A general shift northward with his pitch location seems to explain the differences, though it’s hard to say it has made him a materially better pitcher.
Regardless of whether one prefers the Wilson of old or the current iteration, he looks to be a high-quality reliever at a bargain rate. He’ll step into a setup role alongside righties Carl Edwards, Koji Uehara, Pedro Strop, and Hector Rondon. Chicago currently features two other southpaws, Brian Duensing and Mike Montgomery, with the former likely continuing to function as a lefty specialist and the latter as a long reliever. That said, Wilson makes for a ninth reliever when right-handed Justin Grimm is counted, so it seems someone will need to depart the active roster. Edwards and Grimm are both optionable, but the latter is likeliest to go given his struggles this year; his 40-man spot could also be in jeopardy.
Wilson will take home just $2.7MM this year and comes with another season of arb control. Though he’ll surely command a healthy raise, particularly given that he has picked up a few saves in Detroit, Wilson will promise to deliver surplus value over his salary in 2018 as well.
Not to be lost in the shuffle is Avila, who is putting on his best season since 2011 at thirty years of age. He’ll represent a quality option to share time with young stalwart Willson Contreras for the remainder of the year while Victor Caratini goes back down to finish his development at Triple-A. Over 263 plate appearances thus far in 2017, Avila owns a .271/.392/.472 batting line. While he has benefited from a .375 BABIP, Avila has traditionally carried lofty batting averages on balls in play. And he has finally returned to the power he showed as a younger player (11 home runs, .202 isolated slugging) while continuing to carry an outstanding walk rate.
Avila delivered plenty of value to the Tigers for the one-year, $2MM contract he signed over the winter after dealing with health problems in recent campaigns. That deal, of course, was agreed to with his father — Tigers GM Al Avila, who also engineered this swap. Whether the elder Avila can pull off any further trades before tomorrow’s deadline remains unclear, but this is another meaningful deal for an organization that hopes to get younger and trim some salary before the start of the 2018 season.
The aim in Detroit, of course, is to field a contender in the relatively near term without requiring the kind of budget-busting expenditures that had become commonplace in recent seasons. Finding affordable, controllable asset is the key to such an undertaking, and Avila will hope he can accmplish that here.
Candelario currently sits just inside the top 100 prospects leaguewide, according to MLB.com, which calls him a serviceable defender at third who can be a quality offensive threat. He’s also ready to contribute in the majors right now, having briefly cracked the bigs in each of the past two seasons. The 23-year-old owns a .266/.361/.507 slash through 330 Triple-A plate appearances this year.
While Candelario may be seen by some as the headliner, Baseball America recently tabbed the 18-year-old Paredes as the better prospect among the two, reflecting that outlet’s lower grade on the former and higher grade on the latter. A well-regarded defensive shortstop from Mexico, Paredes has slashed .261/.341/.399 with seven home runs this year through 380 plate appearances at the Class A level.
This transaction puts down a notable market marker with several other top lefties still available via trade. Zach Britton of the Orioles is more expensive and comes with equivalent control rights to Wilson, though perhaps Baltimore will hold out for a greater return given Britton’s sheer excellence over the prior two seasons. And the Padres are said to be placing a big asking price on Brad Hand, who comes with an additional season of control and has emerged as a top-quality reliever.
Jon Heyman of Fan Rag first said a deal was close (via Twitter), after Joel Sherman of the New York Post tweeted the Cubs were “closing in” on Wilson and that Candelario may be involved, with USA Today’s Bob Nightengale (Twitter link) confirming Candelario’s inclusion. MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand noted Avila’s involvement on Twitter, with Ken Rosenthal saying he would indeed go to Chicago (via Twitter). Bruce Levine of 670theScore.com reported the inclusion of Paredes on Twitter. Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press tweeted the cash/PTBNL detail to complete the prospective swap, with Heyman tweeting its finalization.
Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports Images.
dodgerfan711
Many people including myself though Wilson would get a much better prospect than Candelerio who is ranked 92. This may lower the price of Britton and Hand
justinept
I think this write up hits it perfectly. Wilson’s profile was raised because he became a closer but his numbers still value him as a low to mid 3 ERA guy. There’s value there but all the talk about a Chapman/Miller like haul was ridiculous.
2dmo4
Your write up is pretty spot if I say so myself!
dimitriinla
Wilson, and what was received for him, has NO bearing on what Britton might fetch. None at all.
dodgerfan711
To say non at all is just ignorant. For britton the exact same team control , the much bigger sample size season and Wilson doesn’t have the big injury concern. Hand should command more but in no way is it an andrew miller type deal
AndThisGameBelongsToMySanDiegoPadres
No, that’s ignorant! People are just ignorant and they lie and spread rumors about me! Like, that I’m dead.
myaccount
It’s not ignorant, it’s true. Wilson isn’t in the top tier relievers with the likes of Britton, Jansen, Miller, Kimbrel, Chapman, etc. Having the same service time doesn’t matter toward your argument since Britton is clearly the superior pitcher.
The Natural
Love the writeup and especially the use of the phrase “young Stalwart” when describing Willson Contreras.
Kevin jenig
Either way the Cubs upgraded no argument vs that right? It doesn’t matter if hes kimbrell or britton, neither does it matter what prospect we gave up cause were not trying to rebuild. Also cubs dont need kimbrell or britton name cause they makeup for the difference with 8 potential starting gold glovers on defense and a powerful offense.
thebare
Agreed we should have gave Cease or Jimenez not both or last year Grover Torres not McKinny why do we over give on a rental and next year give V. Carenta could be back to #2 catcher age ain’t crap
thebare
True if he sits a year then so be it
ImACubsFanSoWhat
I wish his name WAS Grover… nobody names their kid Grover anymore…
ImACubsFanSoWhat
Also I don’t know who this Carenta kid is, sounds like Caratini in an alternate universe. Wait…. am I in the right dimension?
thekid9
Britton will be going nowhere for a “lower price”
tharrie0820
He’s gonna be higher than 92 after this season though
Cubbie75
I can’t wait until the deal is actually closed.
gmflores27
The Avila family Thanksgiving will be very awkward
RunDMC
A lot less awkward if one of them has a ring and a nice free agent contract. A nice change from his stock last year, trying to rebuild his stock.
tigerfan4ever
No less awkward than two years ago when Alex signed as a FA with the White Sox.
ThePriceWasRight
less awkward than when they are in the middle of negotiations. “son you certainly aren’t worth 4 million a season now please pass the peas”
2dmo4
He’ll be back in a Tiger uni next year.
halos101
alex avila got a chance to rebuild value in detroit and his dad shipped him to a place where he has a chance at a ring. I doubt alex is very upset
Logjammer D"Baggagecling
How much control does wilson have 2 or 3 years in guessing?
Ry.the.Stunner
He’s under control through 2018.
Mikel Grady
This year and next.
Jeff Todd
No need to guess when it’s in the post! One more year via arbitration.
ncaachampillini
Now offer caratini, de la Cruz and one of Baez or schwarber for sonny gray and the team will be set for the postseason.
Logjammer D"Baggagecling
Baez isnt getting traded why would want to trade him at all?
Logjammer D"Baggagecling
Avila is a rental Caratini will be the backup nezt year and for the next 10 to Contreras. 3 years from now they will will be equally shared spots at catcher among other spots. Also a back up to Rizzo and maybe Bryant as well.
diehardcubfan 2
Baez or Schwarber for a pitcher with his injury history. No thanks.
Wait for the offseason and sign one of the studs.
Priggs89
Who are these studs?
Gobbysteiner
Lmao @the fact Cubs fans think schwarber has any value that they could say he has more than Gray. Also “injury history” schwarber literally tore his ACL his very first year
Cubguy13
He can DH for the As so it would greatly reduce his injury risk. Injury prone pitchers are not only a much higher risk to getting hurt again but pitchers injuries tend to keep them out longer on average compared to hitters. And Gray will help out once every 5th day if healthy. Schwarber is batting about .200 so he is helping about every 5th at bat lol
ThePriceWasRight
by that logic he is also hurting you potentially 4 out of every 5 at bats.
myaccount
Sonny Gray had one major injury and doctors called it an isolated incident. He’s not “Injury prone.” He had an unfortunate 2016, but has proven his health. It’s not like he’s gone down every year since promotion.
Kevin jenig
Yea shwarbs SUX but came back to help his brothers win a WS with a torn acl & was a MONSTER piece of the puzzle!! Nobody wants that!! Lol you moron! Bryce harper was hurt all last season & his numbers told you that obvi nobody would want him either.
Gobbysteiner
You’re really comparing Kyle Schwarber to Bryce Harper? Really? Might as well compare Albert Almora to mike trout while you’re at it
ImACubsFanSoWhat
You can compare Tigger to Eeyore if it makes you happy… Saying Schwarber is a great player is just as premature as it is to say that he’s garbage… I mean, the kid is 24… can we give him a full year at least?
gcg15
They are not going to trade Baez. He’s the most versatile defensive player on the roster.
Logjammer D"Baggagecling
Not just their roster probably in all of baseball. He can play all 4 infield spots and he plays them like it’s his natural position.
justinept
Dumb. The Cubs don’t friggin need another starter right now. Playoffs call for a four man rotation. The difference between Gray and Hendricks – whom he’d be replacing – isn’t worth the loss of Baez or Schwarber.
Ben Freiberg
I dont know on what planet Gray would replace Hendricks in the cubs rotation. It would definitely be replacing Lackey.
michaelw
Over his head
ChiSoxCity
You’re crazy if you think Hendricks = Sonny Gray. That must be the Cubby Koolaid talking. Hendricks can barely get thru four innings without getting clobbered these days. Good luck with that in the playoffs against the Dodgers or Nats.
TomBradyrings
Man I knew Theo was serious about going for it, but he took it to another level when he demanded Avilas first born son in the deal…
RegretfulTigersFan7
That’s hilarious!
Mikel Grady
Ha ha. Good one.
dugdog83
Haha nice he drives a hard bargain
justacubsfan
You totally plagiarized this from twitter.
jleve618
That’s like saying he plagiarized a joke from a guy at the bar. Who cares.
TomBradyrings
Thanks brotha jleve618!
halos101
smh he def took it off twitter
halos101
you totally took this from chris cotillo on twitter… he tweeted that right when trade happened
Connorsoxfan
Haha
phantomofdb
I like the white sox avatar with a tom brady screen name. Not sure if you are, but that just reeks of “bandwagon”
ImACubsFanSoWhat
That Sox bandwagon is pretty empty, so I give him props…
JLove72
Great trade by Detroit..Basically Avila is for the player to be named later or cash….that’s all he is really worth….his 2nd half numbers are way down and he is a 2 month rental. Good Job AL Avila Candelerio and Paredes for Wilson. Nice very nice. Can’t wait to see if anymore trades ???….Maybe Verlander still out there ???? Dodgers, Astros ??? Package him with a rental like Kinsler. And a few teams were interested in Iglesias. I thing Avila has another trade or two up his sleeves…and will be announced tomorrow morning. And there are reports that Upton will more than likely will opt out espceically the way he has been playing and he stated he wants to be on a winning team. So Tigers future is starting to look good.
ThePriceWasRight
thought Wilson to the Dodgers was a done deal already????
justinept
His second half numbers? You mean his last two weeks? Look, I’m not an Avila fan or anything but that’s a pretty small sample size.
Padresrebuild
If Wilson (and a rental backup catcher) can get a top 100, then Hand (due to an extra year of control and imo better than Wilson) has to get a top 100 right?
Priggs89
They’ll almost certainly get a top 100 prospect for Hand. It just won’t be one anywhere near as highly rated as Padres fans have been saying (Torres, for example).
jeffball10
They mentioned Adames from the Rays as well. They are expecting the moon.
chitownmvp01
Hand is under control through 2019 I believe. Price on Hand is higher because it’s rumored that the Padres prefer to keep him and will only trade him if they are blown away. They can still get great value in the offseason or this time next year.
justinept
It’s also probably higher because Hand is better
JKB 2
Oh so you are saying in the offseason they will not need to be “blown away”? Bit they need to be “blown away” now?
They will not be “blown away” now or in offseason. Keep him
Dumpster Divin Theo
Hand is worth twice as much as someone like say, Matt Bush
goldenspikes19
haha I see what you did there
ljsmith11
I think Hand would be happy with a job anywhere as long as it was a good one.
Little Whirl
Kudos, sir or madam. Well done.
cxcx
They were never going to trade him for less than that. I think the issue was they were looking for something more like a top 50 prospect plus another top 100 prospect.
Kylemcc
He probably got his sons approval on this. People throwing it way out of proportion.
thebare
Candelea is the second coming of Bill Madlock Detroit will love his bat and his glove is decent at 3B
gcg15
His glove is not good. Or I should say his feet aren’t any good. In fact, he may end up moving to 1B. But the guy can flat out hit.
2dmo4
Candy to 1st, Cabby DH, Victor retire.
thebare
Detroit should get Justin Grimm with Candelea in this deal no Cash change hands/ good trade for both teams
RegretfulTigersFan7
Is Candelario really an upgrade over Nick Castellanos?
Their scouting reports seem the same…
kaseyl
Candelario seems better then Castellanos defensively. Probably similiar bat profile.
dugdog83
Both wear giant chains, jersey half unbuttoned, tats, and inconsistent in the field?
RegretfulTigersFan7
Fair point.
Ully
How many SS can the Cubs trade away in a 5 year period? I know Castro doesn’t count, but I look at Beltre getting 3K and wonder if Castro will ever come close. With that said, I still like this trade for the Cubs.
Logjammer D"Baggagecling
Castro does count they basically gave him away since they traded Warren back to N.Y. for Chapman. Castro is at his peak. Russell and Baez are 1000x better than Castro will ever be.
imindless
You don’t watch baseball do you? Russell is trash and can’t hit, .237 hitter last 2 seasons.
Logjammer D"Baggagecling
Russell is a top 5 SS. He’s having an off year thats all. Castro will never have more than 95rbi and 20homers in a year. He doesn’t have a range russell has. And in 2 years when Torres is called up. Castro is traded. Didi likely moves to 2nd. Or they upgrade with both by then.
YoungNastyMan
There’s so much wrong with this post its almost not funny. Russell is not a top 5 SS right now. His OBP is barely ..300 this season. There’s so many amazing young SS’s in the game, you’re delusional if you think he’s top 5.
Torres is not 2 years away. He was about to be called up this year before he got injured. He will be up next year for certain.
Lastly, Castro isn’t getting traded any time soon. He has two years left on his deal after this season. And Didi isn’t moving to 2B. He’s the SS long-term. Most likely, Torres will play 3rd base. He was already playing games at third in AAA this year to prepare.
vwnut13
Let me know when Russell or Baez finish a season with a wRC+ of 100 or better.
And two years until Torres is called up?
Logjammer D"Baggagecling
Russell is a top 5 SS. Please name more than 10.ss better than him. Torres is will. play SSfor NY. Bottom line.
Logjammer D"Baggagecling
Torres is only 20 and in A ball he’s not ready or close to it. Russell and Baez are top 5 players at their positions. Baez is top 3 at 2nd. Give it time they’ll have 100 wRC+ something Castro will ever and never has had.
turtlerace
The same could be asked of you.
There is no comparison between Castro and Russell. Don’t let his struggles this year fool you, Russell is a defensive anchor that already has a history of driving in runs and getting hits in tough situations.
He has shown a better command of the strike zone, power, RBI ability, and baserunning intelligence at a much younger age than Castro.
Castro has made a habit of mindless mistakes in the field. The only plus he has over Russell is his arm.
wartdog
Why does he have to name 10 better? You said he was top 5 so he only needs to list 5.
therealryan
Russell is not top 5. Seager, Correa, Lindor, Crawford, Bogaerts and Simmons are all better. Russell is in the next tier with guys like Didi, Segura, maybe Andrus. That makes him more like a top 7-10 SS that struggles with the bat and gets value from his glove.
tsmizzzle
Bogaerts, Gregorius, Lindor, Correa, Simmons, Segura, Andrus, Turner, Cozart, Arcia, and Seager. Threw in a bonus too to make it 11 that are better than him, not to mention probably like 4-5 others not mentioned who are having just as medicore seasons. I mean Freddy freakin Galvis is having a better offensive year than the guy dude. He might be an amazing defender, but stop imagining that he’s a good hitter.
therealryan
Baez isn’t even close to being top 5. He’s not even top 10 2B. Altuve, Kinsler, Dozier, Cano, Murphy, Pedroia, Kipnis, Harrison, Forsythe, LeMahieu, Schoop are all better and I’m sure there are others if I thought harder. Baez isn’t bad as a glove first utility IF.
wartdog
“Give it time they’ll have 100 wRC+ something Castro will ever and never has had” This is such an absolutely amazing comment.
Castro’s rookie year in 2010 he had a 99 wRC+.
2011 109 wRC+
2012 100 wRC+,
2014 117 wRC+
Hell THIS YEAR he has a 116 wRC+ and could end up having his best offensive year ever.
You make this so freakin easy. Its ridiculous that just because you are a Cubs homer you have to try to bash a former player and just spit out nonsense. I’m a Braves fan and know how good Starlin has been in the past and respect his game. I would have hoped you did too, considering he was your best player during the stretch of absolutely brutal teams you had during your rebuild.
It took me just a few moments too look up his stats, maybe you should too next time you want to try to have an argument directly related to stats.
Gobbysteiner
Lmfaoo cubs fans are sooo delusional it’s funny. Crawford, Seager, Lindor, Correa, Segura. There’s 5 better than russel right there. And I’m pretty sure Castro has hit 20 home runs recently? Like last year?
gcg15
Russell is “trash”? He had 21 HRs and 95 RBI in his first full season in the majors. He certainly was “trash” in games 4, 5 and 6 of the NLCS last year.
Cubbie75
hey! don’t generalize!
Cubbie75
that was directed to Gobby
ahtigers
Umm I don’t know If Russell is top 5. Correa, Seager, Lindor, Bogaerts, and probably Andrus or Simmons. I’d probably put him in the 7-10 range.
falconsball1993
Correa, Lindor, Seager, Turner, Bogaerts, Segura, even Simmons is carving out Russell’s ranking. Russell is an all-or-nothing swinger. He barely hit his weight last year, same as this year. He’s got pop, and a great glove….but so does nearly every SS nowadays.
falconsball1993
Not to mention Andrus, Gregorius, and Cozart. It’s ignorant to call Russell a top-5 SS given the depth. But hey, Cubs bias is still a thing for some reason.
Brent Hatch
You make good points, Cub fans remember his non-chalant attitude defensively, horrible baserunning and many Baez-like AB’s. He has great contact skills however, so even though he never walsk, he has a few 200 hit seasons which is nothing to sneeze at. If the Cubs offered Russell for Castro, the Yanks would jump all over that. So there is no way Castro is a better all-around ss than Castro. He finished in 2015 at 2nd well and earned tons of respect in Chicago for how he handled the demotion, but make no mistake, he earned that demotion.
Brent Hatch
Russell has a stronger arm than Castro!
Little Whirl
BH from Upstate NY?
Brent Hatch
no
Little Whirl
He’s almost certainly the best defensive SS in the NL, for what that’s worth. Still just 23 too.
Little Whirl
Ha, I was going to say that I think we played side by side in the OF in senior league when we were 14. Oh well -thanks!
Gobbysteiner
“Baez is top 3 at second” AHAHAHAHAHHAHAHAHHAHAHHAHAHHAHAHAH
Gobbysteiner
Sorry lol should’ve said “this particular cubs fans” not all cubs fans are like that
Gobbysteiner
@little whirl no Crawford is the best defensive SS in the NL. russel is pretty good too tho
michaelw
Castro was traded to free up his over paid salary so the Cubs could get Zorb. Warren was just someone to get for him but wasn’t the purpose of the trade. Your not very smart or can think out the box can you.
diehardcubfan 2
The real prize was Paredes not Candelario.
Benklasner
I feel like Candelario is underatted because of his position. He can mash.
RegretfulTigersFan7
I hope so, because I’m skeptical about Al Avila’s ability to fetch prospects.
Lugo comes to mind.
Speaking of the JD trade, I’m a bit confused.
Lugo, Alcantara, Jose King, Candelario, and Paredes?
Last time I checked we need outfield depth considering we have Machado, Iglesias, and Nick (whom I’m convinced gets beaten out by the first infielder that develops even halfway decently).
gcg15
Dude, your team is headed into full blown rebuild mode. Your farm system is garbage too. So right now it is all about accumulating as many players as possible. Crap, the Cubs had Bryant in their system and acquired Olt (went to ChiSox) and Villanueva from the Rangers. You assemble the talent and it sorts itself out.
RegretfulTigersFan7
I’m very aware we’re headed to rebuild mode, I felt we needed to rebuild last year because the Tigers looked like a dumpster fire.
I just don’t want the rebuild to look like it did the last time where we had nineteen years of misery because of incompetence.
I am just surprised that they couldn’t have gotten more from a supposed bidding war or didn’t try to stock some of other positions.
Our outfield depth is horrible.
bartoloshomie
Farm system isnt garbage, wash your mouth homie. Now its a better farm system than the Cubs sooo
And the tigers are actually not in full rebuild mode. As long as Miggy, JV and Fulmer are still around, theres a chance
Gobbysteiner
“So you’re telling me theres a chance”
gcg15
Actions speak louder than words. Your team is going full rebuild right now. As for farm systems – the Cubs system is now merely mediocre. The Tigers was considered either the worst or second worst in all of baseball after this year’s draft. The good news is a full on rebuild doesn’t have to take 20 years.
ahtigers
How do those trades signal a full rebuild?
reflect
I am not a tigers fan and I know nothing of their past rebuild attempts, but this year was legitimately a buyers market. Every trade is underwhelming thus far, so don’t lose hope.
falconsball1993
Tiger’s farm system was ranked 24th at the start of the year per Baseball America. After this year’s draft, mid-season rankings, and trades….they are now 14th. Read a book.
dugdog83
You forgot Detroit throws in big bats and have them play outfield. Tigers haven’t had a skilled OF since Rob Deer.
RegretfulTigersFan7
JD Martinez says otherwise as does Austin Jackson, although they were from other systems.
jimmyz
I’d imagine the Tigers would be in the market for at least one outfielder in free agency this offseason, especially if Upton opts out or they can trade Verlander to free up some extra money. Maybe Jay Bruce, Carlos Gomez or Lorenzo Cain. I could also see them getting a cheaper stopgap type player for next season and make a run at Andrew McCutchen, Adam Jones or AJ Pollock the following offseason.
Dumpster Divin Theo
Throwing more good money after bad. Yeah, that’s the way to rebuild. Let’s acquire 30 something vets at their financial peak but on the back nine of their careers
dugdog83
What are the odds Upton ops out? Slim to none and slim just left town
kenrutka
We have 2 good OF’rs in AA right now. At least one will be a regular in 2019, maybe both.
CompanyAssassin
Rip the cubs farm system.
JKB 2
After every deal someone says RIP to Cubs system. Are you for real? Plenty more of these. Cubs have a Deep system. It can make trades on this level all day long
Phillies2017
I know what you’re saying, but other than Caratini, De La Cruz and maybe Hatch not a lot of blue chippers left.
Zagunis, Tseng, Chesny, Underwood, Alozay and Martinez are solid, but I doubt they are able to bring back anything “on this level” right now.
They still have a strong system but I just don’t think they can keep making deals “at this level”
justinept
But then, they don’t need to right now. So who cares?
Gocubsgo1986
The top 10 rounds of the draft produced prospects. I know the spending restrictions for intl prospects is over next year. The way the Front office is, the farm will be restocked in 2 years
gcg15
They can’t keep making deals at this level, totally agree. But just looking at prospect lists isn’t really taking into account actual play this year in the minors. Hatch has been good, but I think he might be viewed as the 5th best in terms of potential. It is a deep system in terms of pitching now and a few of them project as very solid major league players. Yes, pitching is fickle, but keep your eye on Maples, Mekkes, Robinson, Albertos (some say he has ace type projection), Alzolay (best pitcher in minor league system right now) and Steele.
ahtigers
There’s nothing left bud
michaelw
The Cubs farm system is playing mlb rn. A year in. We can sure drop all those players back down n wipe any current system including the both sox teams n the Braves n Yanks wo a blink. Those farm boys are good for 7 years. People don’t think or really know baseball. Now it’s all cash deals n we have plenty of it
11Bravo
What did I just read????
TraderRyan9
Thought I was the only crazy one here, hahaha
michaelw
You read what u read it’s the truth you can believe it or not. Are you that stupid. The Cubs farm was all brought up. One day it happen to the Braves. If Baez Swarb AA KB Happ Wilson C were all still in the farm the Braves nor any six team would come close to that system. They were the best farm at one time. That what u read. Take it for what’s it worth.
Djones246890
He doesn’t have the best grammar, but MichaelW actually has a good point.
The Cubs already have a World Series Championship under their belt, and they’re built to win — for plenty more years.
They have plenty of money to spend, and they still have some very good chips,that are expendable, at the major league level.
People are focusing on the farm system, which doesn’t matter. They made it! They’re good NOW — at the major league level.
Also, they have arguably the best owned and run franchise in sports. With that kind of leadership, the farm will be top 5, again, within 3-4 years.
JT19
So you’re proposing that the Cubs drop all their young players back down to the minors in order to “wipe any current system”, yet other “people don’t think or really know baseball”.
Dumpster Divin Theo
Hey the Red Sox should do that too. Imagine where Sale, Beintendi, Mookie and co would rank. . That would be awesome. #1 system with a bullet! #whatthehelldidwejustread
michaelw
No you dumb ass you missed the point
michaelw
Sale didn’t come up last year. Your not getting what I’m saying.
Cubguy13
I think he means that most of the Cubs great farm system is still with the Cubs. Instead of tearing up the minors and giving the Cubs the “top minor league system” title, they are getting the Cubs hopefully a third straight playoff appearance and a second straight World Series title. Now the Cubs will rebuild the farm over the next few years and will plug holes via free agency or trades from the major league roster. Their farm system should be right back to being near the top by the time the current core player’s contracts are about to expire
michaelw
What I’m saying is all you people are taking it all out of content. Then making smart remarks about it but it’s pretty much cut n dry. Everyone talks about the farm is gone The farm is far from gone for one. Yes the Cubs are out of top 100 prospects. The ranking is about as valuable as the paper it written on. But people get so caught up in rankings n stats – they are only measuring tools. For exsample what did Swarber rank before he came up? He was the Cubs #1 if he didn’t come up what do you think his rank would be? He batted over 400 just for a few weeks and way over 300 before. What he batting this year? That a #1 prospect and like #10 over all. My point is all the Cubs came up in the last 2 years. If the Cubs never promoted any of them and they sure didn’t have to what you think the Cubs farm would be? It be #1 because it was before anyone came up. By a far margin. So mr Braves guy yes your farm be worse if the Cubs never brought them up. Our farm is all playing now the guys who weren’t brought up won’t play. They are blocked for at least 7 years. We still have AA n A n high A we have people 16 u never heard of or know about. By the time all ours guys get ready to resign or be traded those guys will be ready. Prospects have no gurentee no matter what their rank. N if they can’t play then you use them to get players you need. We don’t need a 3rd base or SS or 2nd baseman or 1st. We don’t need anything for at least 6 to 7 years except SP n BP every so often. That easy to do. Maybe a bench player every so often. Other wise we’re good. To add our dept is unmatched. We can play 4 to 5 different players at almost any position in the field. Not many teams can. Your 3rd baseman goes down you have to be like the sox or Yankees n trade for. We don’t. So that was the point I was making. We don’t need s deep farm now. We’re in our window. That how mlb teams work. Or the smart ones LA did it NY is starting to do it. The Cubs did it. Hust has done it. Braves are starting to do it. So unlike my post all you want if it makes you feel Macho. But it’s the truth. Maybe think before you judge or assume. Some of the comments sound like a 16 year old wrote them. Maybe now you understand. If not someone can explain.
michaelw
Your really an idiot jt19 you must be a teen because you can’t understand anything I wrote. It’s so simple
chesteraarthur
If you’re going to call someone an idiot, you should probably use the correct you’re*
Brent Hatch
Michael;
The problem is not that people disagree with you, it is that they do not understand you. Your writing is very poor. I was able to understand your point after rereading the initial post, and this post, while still written at a very low level, is better yet and clarifies what you were trying to say. But I find it ironic you essentially shouting down people you think are uneducated or don’t know baseball because they cannot comprehend your post. I am a hopeless Cub fan, know baseball, and it took me awhile to get you, and I write at an acceptable level, so there is no need to attack me. Just pointing out that you may need to brush up on your writing skills.
michaelw
Brent thanks for the reply. As I read it again I guess I should have worded it different. It is not a school paper and I was trying to just make a point. You know no one even talked about the Cubs before 2015. After the WS they still get no respect. That’s fine everyone has their ideas, opinions and views. I get that. But to keep judging them and bashing them and just plain out hating is childish. I seen a lot on many boards. Not just this one. Why because they won. They aren’t aloud to be successful. What got me mad is when people talk about the Cubs farm. When I say uneducated I am pointing out either 1 of 3 things. They just hate the Cubs and want to bash them. They really don’t understand the business of baseball. I read comments all over and sometimes I really do wonder about these people. Or 3 they do really know but don’t want to show that hand.
Our farm was ranked #1. If our players were still there it be #1
People either don’t get it or don’t want to. 8 of 9 spots on the field are taken for 6-7 years. So in 7 years you bring up a prospect. Everyone on the Cubs can play 4 to 5 different spots. That’s what’s good. So yeah you trade for what you need to bring you through the door. We don’t have to win this year. We have s 6-7 year window. N can adjust at FA or TD every year. Unlike most teams with Muti holes. we don’t need a good AAA team no more. 6/7 years is a long ways away. It only take selling 1 or 2 from the 25 man roster and that farm is gold again. But the Cubs don’t even have to sweat it now. People keep saying your going to win this year. We don’t have to win. We sure could. And we win last last year. But even if we don’t we will for sure be competitive for 5/6-7 years and maybe win another. But haters just don’t see it and in denial. Is it 100%. No nothing is.
It’s not 100% the LAD are going to win either. Or Hust. What if Clev came on strong n won. People be like WTF. So u get my point now. Sorry for the rage. Just some people get on my nerves with their so called expert baseball knowledge. Peace
Brent Hatch
Hey Michael;
I agree and understand, you are correct, the depth is not needed other than at pitching (where it is ALWAYS needed), they have some good, low-level talent, and that is where the focus should be other than pitching for the next several years. When I write a fairly long piece I always have to reread before posting and listen to myself read it silently, I am shocked at how unintelligible I sometimes sound before proofreading…your points were all good, just weren’t clear. This most recent post is clear however. Go Cubs!
Gobbysteiner
Are you on drugs
gcg15
LOL. Candelario was not going to get playing time. The Cubs have made two moves that address this year and next year. Jake, Lackey and Davis are all free agents. Their top pitching prospects are all at least a year away. So now they have cost controlled help in Quintana and Wilson and a ton of money coming off the payroll. These two moves help them assure they will be able to keep competing until they are forced to make some hard decisions about all their young guns in a few years.
JLove72
Next year for Tigers at deadline if mentioned players are having good 1st half’s – Trade Victor Martinez (2 month rental) and Zimmerman still young with 2 years left on his contract (2019/2020) (Tigers pay the rest of his 2018 salary ).
natsgm
Zimmerman doesnt play for the Tigera
RegretfulTigersFan7
No one wants Zim, we don’t even want Zim at this point–why would anyone else want him and his contract?
TraderRyan9
Zimmermann hasn’t looked bad in this 2nd half so far
RegretfulTigersFan7
He had a good outing or two, that’s it.
TraderRyan9
Even when he gave up 7 runs few starts ago, he pitched well
TraderRyan9
Makes no sense. Why not just trade verlander now and cover part of the contract?
bartoloshomie
Zimm has a full no trade clause…
timyanks
as sthe old song goes, while st louis gently sleeps
JT19
The Cardinals aren’t going to be competing this year, there’s no reason for them to trade valuable assets for a lost cause.
JLove72
And if Verlander is still with us next deadline trade him will have 1 year left on his contract (2019) plus an option year (2020) if in 2019 he finishes top 5 of cy young.
Mr Pike
A third baseman they don’t need who can’t field and another 18 year old SS who can’t hit. Get ready for another 19 year drought.
Dumpster Divin Theo
Yeah, but you’ll always have Miggy’s big contract to comfort you
Mr Pike
His big contract pays for itself so I’m not worried about that.
TomBradyrings
Man it really is a buyers market. I’m glad the White Sox jumped out ahead of the market. Well done Cubs! Sorry Tigers fans.
bartoloshomie
Youre a ChiSox fan who plagarized Chris Cotillos tweet, of course youre gonna be biases
jleve618
Maybe if you plagiarized more you would learn to spell or form comprehensible thoughts.
TomBradyrings
Did I hurt some of your guys feelings. I’m sorry so many people liked my comment. Didn’t mean to disrespect you.
Dumpster Divin Theo
Yup, funny how the market switched in a matter of days when all the clown car teams mashed up in the middle of the AL simultaneously realized chasing WC #2 was a lost cause. And you still have the O’s going out and grabbing Hellickson. In hindsight, that’s some return for the likes of Swarzak and Kahnle
JLove72
Cubs ain’t gonna win it this year, they will regret giving away all their top prospects
Priggs89
Since you have a crystal ball, will they win it all next year? Seeing as the only rental they acquired was Avila, I don’t think they’ll be regretting anything this year, even if they don’t win.
Dumpster Divin Theo
I’m actually surprised they didn’t make a bigger splash and pick up Verlander while they were at it. Even if the last 1 and 1/2 years of the contract became an albatross, they could have ponied up now and maximized their chances in a short series. They prolly could have gotten Mr. K Upton in the deal for straight salary relief. Go big or go home.
TraderRyan9
Tigers would never give verlander away on a salary dump.
Mikel Grady
It’s not 4 pm yet
Cubguy13
This must be coming from the same source that told you that there was no way the Cubs had the prospects alone for Wilson and that the Dodgers were getting him
stymeedone
Verlander is the face of the franchise. If you have been paying attention to his recent starts, he is still a solid pitcher. That not something any team could salary dump without severe repercussions from the media and fan base. The team still has to sell tickets.
JKB 2
So said people like you last year as well
Cubguy13
I don’t think the Cubs are done after this. When the media asked Lackey about his feelings on possibly joining the bull pen in the playoffs since the Quintana trade happened, he basically said he is either staying in the rotation or staying at home. I wouldn’t put it past Theo to trade him and Arrieta tomorrow for some prospects and flip them to Oakland for Gray
Priggs89
A Lackey rental won’t get you anything of value. An Arrieta rental might get you an average prospect or two. Whatever they get from other teams for those two won’t be even close to enough to land Gray.
Also, assuming your plan worked and the prospects acquired would be enough (or close to enough) to land Gray, why wouldn’t the team trying to acquire Arrieta just trade for Gray instead?
Cubguy13
Teams like KC and Houston and the Dodgers are in the market for rental starters like Lynn or Darvish. Not every team needs to get a controllable starter at the deadline. Also, I would imagine it would take some of the Cubs “decent” prospects in addition to what they get in a trade for Arrieta or Lackey. Epstein is creative, I’m sure he could figure out a way to make it work. He got some good pieces from the As for two rental pitchers a few years ago and those pitchers weren’t as proven or as good as Lackey and Arrieta
Cubguy13
Dodgers, Astros, and Royals are all in the market for potential rental starters. Also, it might take some of what’s left of the decent prospects the Cubs already have in addition to what return they would get for Lackey and/or Arrieta. A contender will overpay for a rental starter like Arrieta easily if they feel it will win them a World Series and I would imagine Lackeycould get decent value also.
Dumpster Divin Theo
Yeah, there’s such a great market for Lackey and Arrieta. That is what folks in these parts refer to as North Side stupid
Cubguy13
Well there wasn’t a market for Darvish until he was rumored to be available. If the Cubs made Lackey and Arrieta available, there would definitely be a market for them. I don’t expect hillbilly willie to be able to comprehend that simple logic though
gcg15
Dude. Just stop. They are not trading either of those guys. JA is going no where before the trade deadline. Lackey might have been involved in a trade if only to help balance off salary issues. He never would have been the centerpiece of a deal for prospects worth anything.
michaelw
Lackey no JA yes. What do u think he sign for in the off season smart ass
Willie
Mikel Grady
Arietta only starting pitcher to win two road games in World Series. His e.r.a. Is slightly above archer and darvish who everyone is coveting. Cubs won’t trade him but he would bring back very good package of prospects
ahtigers
They don’t have the prospects to outbid the Yankees for Gray
JKB 2
Lackey has zero value. If that is his attitude them he will be staying home
yankees25
Cubs fans think they’re getting Gray now, with what system
thefallensoldier
Its funny how unknowledgeable meat heads keep using that line. Cubs still have a ton of valuable prospects that Beane would desire. Its only a matter if they are willing to part with that talent and if other teams are willing to part with their talent. Yankees and Dodgers both have more to offer prospect wise, but again, its a matter if they are willing to pay the asking price.
michaelw
I didn’t say that. But if the Cubs really wanted Gray Happ n Russle would have him tonight. Don’t be mad cause the Yanks folded. I personally don’t want him. Big risk Heath wise. 1 year don’t buy it for me
JKB 2
What fans said they are getting Gray after this trade?
ducksnort69
It feels as though the Cubs made out like bandits here. If Wilson was a rental I’d feel this was a fine return for Detroit, but with that extra year this feels light.
TraderRyan9
Wonder if candelario will be in detroit or toledo?
Not really anywhere for him to play with castallanos at 3rd and cabrera at 1st, with victor at dh
stymeedone
Hopefully in the minors, learning a new position. Still have Victor next year, so their is no rush.
steelparrot 3
The Cubs should go for it, they have a WS in their pocket and they didnt even give up that much.
The Brewers, Cards and Pirates arent stupid, they will most likely sell/ buy dollar store products. They cant match the Cubs, so why try with the WC an NL west party.
bmyers57
I’m honestly surprised all the interest Wilson was getting. He’s ran a 3.2 FIP, 3.55 ERA over the past year and a half with Detroit. Underlying numbers this year not too much different than his whole career besides k’s. He’s a nice guy to have in the backend of a pen, but not really a game changer.
He was doing the same kind of thing with the Yankees and the Tigers got him for nothing a couple years ago. Now we’re getting two future projected regulars in the infield? I’ll take that.
TraderRyan9
Wilson is good. This looks like a fair return for wilson, if not a little on the light side. But a lot will matter with how parades turns out
Logjammer D"Baggagecling
Candelario and 2 others wasn’t much to give up. Candelario is gonna make Comerica look small. He’s got that much power. It was fun to watch him.
chesteraarthur
Candelario’s power is 50/50 raw and 45/50 game. who are you talking about. He doesn’t have great power.
bartoloshomie
Hes not elite but has been elite so far in this season. Not to mention he can close. The Tigers did well but so did the Cubs.
turtlerace
Wilson has a lot of value to the Cubs with Davis on a one year. Carl Jr. is being groomed as a future closer but Wilson gives them a high leverage lefty at the back end they can interchange with Strop at setup.
csamson11
Grimm and Caratini optioned, and one of their minor league depth pieces like Aaron Brooks will be designated I’m guessing.
fatelfunnel
Funny how fans “talk up” their farm system and prospects. But as soon as they get traded, all of a sudden the prospects suck….
Little Whirl
It’s the CIRRRRRRR-CLE of LIFE! 😉
Paws1
Al Avila once again shows that he is in way over his head. He has essentially received nothing in return for JD Martinez and Justin Wilson and he hasn’t unloaded any payroll. Additionally, he’s traded for 5 shortstops none of which is highly regarded. Nice job Al! I’m sure your next move will be to resign Brad Ausmus. Theo just embarrassed you and put himself back in the drivers seat to win another series.
stymeedone
So, based on your extensive knowledge of the players acquired, You don’t like the trade? Please inform all of us of the better deal that was offered. It’s a buyers market this year. While I, too, was hoping for more back in a JD trade, I do acknowledge that Avila is the only GM to trade his rental OF. No other has found a market. He did.
Mr Pike
Keeping JWilson for 6 months or a year was one better deal. I’m skeptical of any rebuild that is built around 18 year old high schoolers. That’s asking for a minimum drought of 8 years and a maximum of 119.
ahtigers
Keeping Wilson wouldn’t have been smart at all. His value was never going to be higher. Considering what Avila got him for in the offseason a few years ago, this trade was solid. I’m not sure he couldn’t have gotten more, though, with the Dodgers in on a bidding war. However, I don’t know how Avila values those prospects.
Mr Pike
It’s hard to believe Avila couldn’t get an 18 year old lottery ticket and a third baseman they don’t need who’s ceiling is “an average MLB third baseman” at the next trade deadline. JWilson would have had another years closing experience to build his resume and reputation.
This as apparently about saving the $6MM they would have had to pay him next year. There would have been value in not giving up on 2018 by keeping the best closer they had in 30 years. At least there would have been some leadership and stability in the pen while the young power arms develop.Now they are going to be asked to do things they are not prepared for.
Little Whirl
I think a lot of these fans seem to think that whatever prospects list they’re referring to is some sort of master list for all of the front offices, but that’s not reality obviously. These things aren’t monolithic (at all) & mileage is going to vary across front offices, sometimes greatly.
Little Whirl
Candelario is 23 & slugging over .500 in the PCL. He’s not that far away.
it’s all theoretical, but six years of a prospect like him alone is a whorthy gambit when contrasted with eight months of a non-elite short reliever most of the time.
donniebaseball
I don’t think it was about the money. If we waited a year, J wilson’s return could have very well looked like Addison Reed’s return, which was a pile of garbage. 3 relievers, years away from any chance of contribution.
Cardinal
Cubs reload; reminds me when the Cardinals front office wanted to win
Mr Pike
The upside of these Tiger trades for lottery tickets and a guy who may turn into an average third baseman we don’t need, is, we will finally be able to get great seats to watch the visiting teams stars up close.
Little Whirl
He could be better than average. Nick Castellanos is practically the epitome of ‘average’ (has never topped 1.6 bWAR in his career & may be fortunate to be even a win above replacement in 2017) & Jeimer Candelario could be considerably better than that.
I feel like I’m on an island with this, but Candelario is a very nice return for 8 months of Justin Wilson for a team who isn’t likely to contend earnestly during that time. He’s a very interesting offensive player.
Isaac Paredes is a nice long term get too. He’s very reminiscent of Willy Adames around the time that said player was traded to TB for David Price in 2014 imo, actually.
Eat'EmUpTigers
I agree with everything you stated Little Whirl. Although if the Tigers could have been able to get Fisher from the ‘Stros I’d be a lot happier:)
chitown311
I hope Wilson can teach Baez how not to go 0-5 w 5 strikeouts
66TheNumberOfTheBest
__% chance that Wilson takes Wade Davis’ closing job? 0.1?
dugdog83
He was only the closer in Detroit cuz Krod blew. Cubs fans will like this guy in the 8th.
Jeremy Gillan
I wonder is there’s still more to this than what’s been stated. I find it odd that it’s been reported but neither team had confirmed the deal; almost 12 hours later.
leprechaun
I was thinking same thing. So either something popped up with the Medical records or they might be adding players ( Verlander ). Keep in mind Theo is always very quiet about all his pending moves
giantboy99
Gotta love Theo
donniebaseball
I don’t like this trade for the Tigers. Candelario has not been consistent offensively, and without any other tools (all average/below average), all of his value relies on his bat. He’s slightly better at defense than nick, but his bat is worse. They could have done better.
HarveyD82
another ex bucco given away. good luck with the cubs!
Kevin jenig
2017
Im seeing alot of hes not britton comments LOL But either way the Cubs upgraded theres no argument vs that right? It doesn’t matter if hes kimbrell or britton, neither does it matter what prospect we gave up cause were not trying to rebuild. Also cubs dont need kimbrell or britton name cause they makeup for the difference with 7 starting gold glovers on defense and a pretty powerful & clutch offense. Oh and half the team are basically sophomores
donniebaseball
It was a good trade for the Cubs. Wilson is cheap, good, and controllable for 2018 as well.
Candelario was never a part of the Cubs’ plans and had no spot. He doesn’t have great upside either.
He’s not wade davis or chapman, but Wilson is a very dependable 7th inning guy in a deep bullpen or more likely, a very solid set-up guy.
Kevin jenig
So many dumb people & comments. I wish I could say I can’t believe my eyes, but…
KB R.
Not a horrible trade……. but I find it to be a pointless one. This trade would’ve made more sense if it was Wilson and Verlander – not Avila. They didn’t “need” a backup catcher and anyone saying otherwise is an idiot. How many games is your backup catcher going to win for you, and is Avila going to be that much better than Caratini? Also, is Avila going to steal more ABs away from Contreras….. if so, how does that move make this team better and not worse? As for Wilson…… he’s a solid reliever, sure. But the Cubs already have one of the best bullpens in MLB….. despite the narrative the braindead media peddle and the simpleton fanbase blindly accepts as being factual. Cubs’ bullpen as of right now are pretty much top 5 in every meaningful category…. ERA, WHIP, BAA, opponents’ OPS against, etc. Top 5 in just about all those categories, if not, top 7…… sooo bad. *sarcasm* And they’re hundredths of a point off from being top 3 in most of those categories if not best in the league. But yeah, morons will say they REALLY needed to improve their “weak” bullpen. The Cubs bullpen has been this teams’ strength all year and they’ve done it by pitching by throwing the 9th most IP among bullpens. 9th most doesn’t sound that crazy, but you have to figure the Cubs are 1st in their division and 8 games over .500. That’s a good team. Good teams usually rely on good pitching and that pitching is usually out of the rotation. Not this year in the Cubs case. The 8 bullpens who have pitched more innings than the Cubs’ are all HORRIBLE teams, because they have HORRIBLE starters. Milwaukee is the only Bullpen I see with more IP than the Cubs’ bullpen who also have a winning record. The other teams with more IP out of the pen are the Reds, Orioles, Blue Jays, Marlins, Padres, Twins, and Mariners. All .500 teams or below…… and they’re .500 teams or worse because their starters can’t go 6 innings. Cubs have bucked that trend….. and have been very fortunate in doing so. I mean it’s pretty bad and very telling how awful the Cubs rotation has been when the White Sox bullpen has thrown fewer innings than the Cubs’ bullpen….. it means Sox starters have on average gone deeper into games than the Cubs’ starters….. pathetic.
So again, this trade would’ve made a lot more sense if it was Wilson and Verlander…… not Wilson and Backup Catcher. A Backup catcher is going to win you exactly 0 games over what I think Caratini was doing. In fact, Avila will likely take ABs away from Contreras which IMO makes this team worse to be honest. Wilson….. yay….. another solid reliever. If last year should’ve taught you anything it is that relievers don’t win you that many more games, if any more games than you would’ve normally won. Also, you have to be leading in the game for the relievers to be of any value and hold onto said lead. Adding a backup catcher isn’t exactly the added offense needed to get you that lead, haha. Personally, I don’t think they needed to add anyone offensively. This is a complete team on offense and defense…… if only we had a manager who would manage them correctly. I swear if I see .220 BA and .330 OBP Zobrist leading off again and Jon Jay either on the bench or down in the lineup with his .300+ BA and da** near .400 OBP I am going to freak out. JAY is the leadoff man they’ve desperately needed all year and Maddon has refused to play him everyday and utilize him as the leadoff hitter……. for reasons only known to Maddon and his idiotic strategies which rarely make any sense. Maddon sitting their most consistent hitter all year in….. ALMORA also has been maddening. When they sent Schwarber down (which was the right move….. even if it was a month late) they should’ve kept him down until September 1st. In the meantime Almora and Jay are your everyday CFer and LFer…… until they no longer perform up to the task. I mean Jay and hit .307 BA and .397 OBP leading off, with Almora in the 2 spot with his .277 BA and .333 OBP is a solid 1-2 combo at the top of the order. Follow that pair with Bryant-Rizzo-Contreras as your 3-4-5 hitters to drive them in…… I almost guarantee you’d see more runs on the board.
Brent Hatch
Crazy that people question the wisdom of Theo, Jed, Joe or anyone in leadership in the organization that just won the WS….. What are your credentials again?
Anyone who thinks the Cubs need a backup catcher is an idiot? REALLY?!?
Avila is necessary because you cannot expect to make a WS run with an untested rookie at catcher if Contreras gets hurt.
Deepening your bullpen is a good thing, this pushes Grimm out, if you can improve, you do it, particularly in the bullpen, which only becomes MORE important in the postseason.
Almora is not a #2 hitter, although I wish he would get more playing time also, I love his short stroke and baseball acumen, but then do you sit Happ, Schwarber…who?
I will trust in Cub management, they seem to know what they’re doing…