SAN ANTONIO (670 The Score) – While an offensive breakdown in May and June was a big factor in the Cubs’ disappointing 2024, adding a big bat isn’t the club’s priority this offseason.
Instead, a starting pitcher is atop the Cubs’ wish list as the offseason is underway in earnest at the GM Meetings. And there’s no shortage of front-line starters available in free agency, where right-hander Corbin Burnes, left-hander Blake Snell and left-hander Max Fried are among the biggest names.
The Cubs’ starting rotation performed well in 2024, with its 3.77 ERA ranking second in the National League, but injuries took a toll and sapped the bullpen’s strength in a trickle-down effect. That’s a big reason why Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer is interested in adding to what was a team strength.
“I was really impressed by our pitching last year,” Hoyer said. "But we had a lot more injuries than expected. Our starting pitching kind of hung in there for us.”
Powerful agent Scott Boras, who represents Burnes and Snell, held a large media session Wednesday at the GM Meetings.
“Corbin is one of the most consistent pitchers in the game as far as winning the Cy Young award or being in the top finishers,” Boras said. “He is the foundation for a team in the postseason having been the only one to go eight innings in recent times. However, the teams will determine their interest, not me.”
There’s depth on the starting pitcher market behind Burnes, Snell and Fried, with the likes of right-hander Shane Bieber and right-hander Nick Martinez available.
In addition to free agency, the trade market is the other route for the Cubs to acquire a starting pitcher this offseason. The pitching-rich Mariners may be a trade match and could be interested in the talented young infielders coming through the Cubs’ system such as Matt Shaw and James Triantos. Hoyer was seen talking with Mariners president of baseball operations Jerry DiPoto on Wednesday after the sessions at the GM Meetings had broken off for the morning.
The Cubs’ offense performed poorly at Wrigley Field in 2024, averaging just 3.9 runs at home as opposed to 5.1 runs on the road. The Cubs analytics department researched the discrepancy and the unusual summer of wind, which gusted toward home plate much of the time. The Cubs pitching staff also benefitted from that wind, posting a 3.08 ERA at home and 4.53 ERA on the road.
“As much as we understood how our hitters all had lower OPS numbers at home this year, we can't ignore how that helped out pitchers at Wrigley Field,” Hoyer said. “So we certainly will pay attention to that as we prepare to put our team together for 2025.”
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.