"We're now in the back half of December, and the typical holiday-related slowdown at the end of the year means this week could see a frenzy of activity. That's particularly true when it comes to high-end starting pitchers, as one decision appears to be coming soon and another has to happen by January 2. That pair of dominoes could set off a string of transactions early in the new year,"
"That plays right into Jed Hoyer's hand as he sits back and checks like Mike McDermott in Rounders. Hoyer is passive to a fault, or at least that's how it seems, but he's shown a willingness to strike quickly and quietly when market conditions align with his chosen strategy. Exactly what he's targeting this winter is a mystery to everyone outside of the Cubs' offices, but we should get clarity here soon."
Holiday slowdown and end-of-year timing have compressed roster decision-making, with one high-end starter choice imminent and another required by January 2. Those two decisions could prompt early-January transactions or simply underscore the market's sluggishness. Several players are receiving larger contracts than expected despite looming labor unrest, while free agency and trade activity remain muted. Cubs president Jed Hoyer is exercising notable patience but has shown capacity for decisive, quiet moves when opportunities align with his strategy. Michael King has narrowed his suitors to the Yankees, Red Sox, and Orioles, with the Orioles likely needing to significantly outbid rivals.
Read at Cubsinsider
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]