Jed Hoyer’s position as president of baseball operations for the Chicago Cubs could be in jeopardy, especially after making it clear that the team will be sellers at the upcoming 2024 trade deadline (July 30) next week.
If his seat isn’t already feeling warm, it should be.
Hoyer stated earlier this week that unless there is a significant change in the next few days, the Cubs will be focusing on future seasons at the trade deadline. This decision may not sit well with Cubs ownership, considering the significant investment made in this year’s roster.
During the offseason, the Cubs were one of the most active teams, spending nearly $90M on player salaries and making a major managerial move by hiring Craig Counsell from a divisional rival in Milwaukee. Despite a payroll of $227M, the team currently ranks seventh in the league. However, their performance on the field has not justified this expenditure.
As of Tuesday, the Cubs are in fourth place in the National League Central division, just half a game away from last place. They are also 3.5 games behind a wild-card spot, with four teams standing between them and a playoff position.
Out of the top-10 teams in payroll, only the Cubs, Toronto, and Texas have losing records this season. Among the top-12 teams in payroll, the Cubs and Blue Jays are the only ones with a lower winning percentage.
It is clear that the Cubs are not getting their money’s worth, with a roster that is struggling, especially in terms of offensive production. The team ranks poorly in runs scored, batting average, on-base percentage, slugging percentage, and OPS.
Hoyer’s big signing, shortstop Dansby Swanson, has been a disappointment with a hefty contract that has not paid off. In contrast, Cody Bellinger had a successful season last year but has struggled to maintain that performance this year.
With significant money tied up in underperforming players, along with disappointing results and a weak offense, the Cubs face a challenging situation that may not leave room for another chance for the front office.
