(670 The Score) With the MLB season concluded after the Rangers defeated the Diamondbacks to win the World Series on Wednesday, all 30 teams will now start their offseason business.
Initially, the Cubs’ key business revolves around two pitchers. Right-hander Marcus Stroman must make a decision on his $21-million player option for 2024 by Monday, which is also when the Cubs must decide whether to exercise a $16-million team option on right-hander Kyle Hendricks for next season.
It’s unlikely that the Cubs will offer an extension of any sort to Stroman following his erratic 2023 season in which he had a 3.95 ERA in 136 2/3 innings. Stroman had a great first half before struggling with injury and underperforming in the second half. What comes next is completely up to him.
The Cubs plan to pick up Hendricks’ $16-million option. Whether an extension to keep him with the team beyond 2024 can be worked out is another matter. Both Hendricks and the Cubs have been open about their desire to get a new deal done if possible, and their communication has been good. Hendricks, who will turn 34 in December, had a 3.74 ERA in 137 innings in 2023. The Cubs certainly want to keep Hendricks, and they understand the importance of rotation depth.
In another matter, the Cubs will almost certainly extend a qualifying offer to 28-year-old center fielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger, who’s coming off a strong season in which he hit 26 homers and posted an .881 OPS in 130 games. Bellinger will surely then decline the qualifying offer – a $20.3-million contract offer for 2024 – to hit free agency.
Assuming that’s how it plays out, the Cubs will receive a compensatory pick between the third and fourth rounds of the MLB Draft if Bellinger signs with a different team in free agency.
The Cubs will be in the bidding for Bellinger, but the price may become untenable for them at some point. With that in mind, the Cubs are also preparing to be involved in trade discussions for Padres star outfielder Juan Soto and Mets first baseman Pete Alonso, sources previously said.
The Cubs also hold a $6-million team option on catcher Yan Gomes for 2024. It’s likely that the Cubs exercise the option on Gomes. Reliever Brad Boxberger’s contract includes a $5-million mutual option.
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.