Are The Chicago Cubs Cutting Payroll in 2025?

[@jamesborgstrom]

I would like to see the Cubs go out and sign a solid closer

[@G2mxrZ]

Roki Sasaki just sealed Jed Hoyer’s fate. Cubs are toast!

[@chrisnelson7755]

Great show Sam! The payroll topic reminds me of your view and comments on urgency etc. While you are usually referring to in season…it seems to apply to the off season here. Like you I was excited about Tucker and then they hit the brakes. Sure they might still sign some folks and calm us down. But meanwhile we’ve seen a lot of the available talent that you guys identified sign other places so now we’re limited in our options. Let’s hope they surprise us 🤞 Go Cubs!

[@Johniewaterice]

Ricketts lack of respect for the fans is obvious. He’s not concerned about what we think.he’s knows all those suckers will be there in April 😂

[@justinnoceda2115]

Dave Kaplan podcast ft jed posted this morning on KZbin its kind of hard to dislike jeds hes a real cool dude

[@CharlieMurrin_IE]

About 8 on payroll. Thought when they got Tucker that they would go for it this year but now it just looks like they got a good deal and that'll do. Off season isn't finished but they'd need to get moving.

[@glennsheffield3603]

I agree with those that say ownership looks at this as a business first and possibly only as a business For those that really love the cubs only way to get the ownership of change is for the business not to beprofitable. I would love to see this age of communication, a boycott that’s organized and vocal and viral. Maybe a fun episode would be to look into the world of high finance to see who are the top 10 viable candidates to be next ownership of the Cubs that grew up coming to Wrigley and having an attachment to the team that would allow the grinch style parsimonious culture of the current leadership to become a distant memory

[@ChitownCapnClutch]

The amount of money they spend is not the issue. Who they spend it on is!

[@jamespullos8027]

That's exactly why they don't try Sam, Because they know they have you, You have to hold them to account

[@Be_Easy_420]

I'm at about 2.5. This type of frugality is what I expect from Ricketts since 2016. Spend enough to keep the fans off your back but not enough to be serious contenders.

[@michaeljames8291]

Cubs should always be a playoff team. The cubs have dodger money but spend like the white Sox. They have Jason Hayward ptsd with long contracts.

[@sni6941]

Does Yankees, Dodgers always in post season? Do they always in WS? Their revenue is a lot more than Cubs, go search and do your homework!

[@SangreEsRaro]

Yeah they do! This is the best comment I've seen all day

[@SangreEsRaro]

​@aduncaroo he's absolutely correct. No excuse the Cubs shouldn't be in the playoffs, casual

[@terencio1117]

MLB would be a better product if all teams were on a level playing field. Cubs get a 6. World Series is not a priority they just hope to look competitive. When they spend ,I’ll spend. Wont even pay for full season of Marquee.

[@sni6941]

@@terencio1117 to me, financially support sports team is like invest in a penny stock that you won’t lose any sleep if it goes to zero!

[@lukehodges6254]

I am at a 6. As much as I want Lopez or Castillo, we have made big improvement in RF with Tucker. We got the star player we wanted. Kelly gives us insurance an upgrade at catcher. If shaw has growing pains, he still will be a major upgrade from morel and paredes. Dansby was hurt and he will take a step up. Boyd is miles above who Hendricks was last year. The Rea signing for me is more about depth and taking a top 3 pitcher from the brewers who won our division. He had 12 wins for the brewers last year! He is more reliable than Assad. Assad had 66 walks last year! What i want for the rest of the offseason is one more top tier reliever and key bench players. What made our 2016 team so good was our key bench players like La Stella, Szczur, Montero, and Coughlan. It seemed like they would come through whenever we needed them. Those are the types of players the brewers have throughout their roster each year. Small names but effective!

[@edwardmajka3144]

Marathon Watching 1/16/25 Thank you for the show Sam! You’re doing a great job of keeping us informed.

[@mattwauben659]

I’m at like a 7… given the market size you should always be in that top 10 spenders. However we always seem to be “out” on the big FAs such as Ohtani or Soto.

[@youarethecreator1]

Congrats on going to Cubscon. You guys deserve it!

[@everetttauscher8377]

Thanks for the show Sam! LET'S GO CUBS!!! ⚾️✌️💙🐻

[@sni6941]

After listening to Jed interview with Kap, I feel 80% sure that the Bregman thing is something Boras trying to create competition out of thin air. But just for fun, I think if Bregman can agree to this short term deal I would do it: Similar to Cody deal, 90m total for 3 years with each year opt outs, AAV for 2025 is 22m with 8m opt out in 2026, that would keep 25 luxury tax payroll down (we saved 25m on Cody, but added 10m in Tucker-Parades swap) . (30m with 10m opt out in 2027, 38m in 2027 if opt in) . So net cost for those two swaps are 7m more which is very good deal. And keep Cubs under tax with a major bullpen addition. That would make me feel very good.

[@derekhahn5177]

Jed seemed to knock the Bregman rumors down pretty quick

[@mark3796]

I'd be up in the higher numbers as you are - probably an 8. It would be great to have complete transparency which I don't feel we have. You guys are great to listen to - very thoughtful analyses and well-delivered. Thanks for that and... have a great time at Cubscon!

[@andrewmaxwell8799]

Hi Sam, Andrew from Vegas here. Everyday listener and I love the show. I’ve been pretty much on the same page as you this offseason. I really wanted a big bat, big SP arm, and big RP arm. We got 1/3 of those so far, so yes it’s frustrating. However, if we sign a closer and push Hodge to the 8th, I will be okay with the off-season. The rotation could use a flamethrower, but I’m content where it’s at if this is the direction with pay-roll we’re going. PCA is going to be the X-Factor offensively. If he goes, we go

[@paulcurry9121]

There is still a lot of Hot Stove time left to make moves and the team needs to make moves as the team roster is incomplete. Two positives so far: 1) we have a star slugger in Tucker and 2) Miles Mastrobuoni is now off the books. I think Jed will fill the vacancies with enough talent to win the Cental. I think our frustration is a case of Dodgers envy. “Why can’t we be like them” is a constant thought. Well, it appears that is not going to happen, this year or any year. The Cubs have their business plan and they are sticking to it. A glimmer of hope is the emerging talent from the minors. All of this said, I am like you Sam, I can’t wait until Spring Training.

[@sethdenney1245]

Spend more. If padres want international money. Then try for cease? Trade for tork as a back up 1b. Sign relief/closer. Bring in moncada for cheap. Then focus on extending tucker during the season

[@glennhurt1169]

Im at about a 7 they need at least 1 more bat in this lineup and a reliever that they can depend on. If they want to field a competitive team they're going to have to spend a little more.

[@ElSahgey]

Cubs are like the CVS of MLB. They make a ton of money but are frugal to the extreme. CVS cuts store/pharmacy staff that results in poor customer service to boost the bottom line, but they know the customers will keep coming even if the product is worse. Cubs cut payroll to save on their bottom line because they know even though the product on the field suffers, the fans will stay loyal and keep purchasing. CVS owns not only the stores but Caremark insurance provider which funnels customers to them. Rickets not only own the Cubs but much of the surrounding peripherals to Wriggley Field and other venues nationwide so they know money will continue to flow to them regardless of how good the team is. At this point, i feel the cubs are treated as an investment vehicle for the ownership group that is to maximize profits at the expense of the product on the field, because they know their customers will keep spending regardless. It's disheartening as a fan to realize your team is nothing more than an investment vehicle for the ownership group to make money on. But like you said Sam, cubs fans are loyal regardless of the quality of the team. The term "Lovable Losers" came from somewhere and is what made Rickett's mouth water when considering purchasing a team as it's the perfect product that will sell regardless of quality. Welcome to continued mediocrity where our players must continually over perform projections if we want any chance to see a playoff berth.

[@amazingchannel222]

Spending shows the fans they are trying to win now... Thus far Tommy Boy is pissing me off!

[@tomcrane9448]

I think you are correct Cubs are mid market and on a budget, also players seem to be going for big bucks. From Tom and Jed's perspective it's a business, they are trying to spend enough but not too much from a fans perspective its frustrating. Someone said there are still something like 160 odd free agents (maybe the setup man) on the market so other than the Dodgers, Yankees and Mets not too many clubs are spending a lot. I think you guys mentioned collective bargaining is happening in 2027 which they may be worrying about in terms of long term high value deals. I think ideally they need a starter, a few bench guys and a closer still I'm sceptical they will get all those and starter free agents are limited, trades would cost a lot in prospects/players as teams value quality starters. You get the feeling they are trying to win the division and hope a miracle happens with the Yankees, dodgers, Mets etc.

[@derekhahn5177]

Seems like Shaw would benefit from having a veteran like Bregman to coach him for a year

[@naturallawman2965]

Jed came across very well in Kap's interview. He works for the Ricketts. They are trying something... building a consistently competitive team, but with more of a $200M-$230M type payroll. He also said the Ricketts would spend if they knew they had the right team. My takeaway from his interview is to say the last two seasons, despite winning records, the F.O. doesn't really believe in this team. If they see more consistency... they'll invest more. The problem with that tho is, had Hader or even a combo of Chapman, Robertson and/or Neris been in that bullpen at the same time last season, the Cubs would've won the division with ease. Had they invested more upfront, the Cubs results would've been better. Jed did admit candidly that the bullpen was a mistake last year. His #1 regret also was Schwarber.

[@Commenter007]

Jed had no choice but to admit that the bullpen was a huge mistake!

[@JMLampshade]

21:55 I was at that game 😆 Wild atmosphere

[@vincentwendt720]

I'm about a 5 on frustration level. On the one hand, I was hoping with some other signings to boost the team a bit (like Corbin Burns or Willy Adames, since they both played for Craig Counsell). On the other, I don't want them to max out their payroll before the season starts so that come the trade deadline the Cubs don't have room to make a big trade if something comes up.

[@edwardmajka3144]

Marathon Watching 1/16/25 Thank you for giving us some information. This will be a good video. I want them to spend a little more. Try to get Bregman and maybe Flaherty.

[@smilecrob]

The amount I spend on the Cubs translates to a payroll of 255 million. C’mon Tom, keep up with me!

[@stevenstathopulos5149]

Sam, remember our motto here in Cub land; "in Jed we trust"!!!! I think all that's needed now is faith, faith that Jed can and will come through! Plus, I'm not worried about resigning Tucker for 26' and beyond because that'll block bringing Caissie up to play RF...

[@jwilson3985]

7. Feels like we’re a fan of a mid market team. Jed says they couldn’t afford Schwarber? How long has the pressure on payroll been around? Forever?

[@codyh5494]

Have a blast Sam!!!

[@mspannarbor]

6-7 on the ten-point frustation scale. Most of my angst is tied up in the notion that it seems unlikely the Cubs are going to do everything they can to sign Tucker.

[@jasonmatthias4258]

The Chicago Cubs currently have three players on the roster who were drafted in the 2015 MLB Draft-all within the top 9 picks! Dansby Swanson: 1st overall pick Kyle Tucker: 5th overall pick Ian Happ: 9th overall pick Imagine if we could add Alex Bregman (2nd overall pick in 2015) to the squad-that would make four top-9 picks from the same draft year on the same team! What a powerhouse lineup that would be! 💥⚾

[@davidduvall5266]

Here’s my take on payroll and the lack of spending. Last year, the Cubs wanted Bellinger for way less than $30M per season. Boras knew it, and he knew the Cubs didn’t have a plan B for a big bat as the offseason went further along. Eventually Jed/Tom caved and paid what Boras wanted. The Cubs didn’t get the production they hoped for and felt like they got burned on the contract. Fast forward a year, and we’re looking at Bregman. Boras knows we want him, and he’s waiting for Jed/Tom to cave again. For now, Jed is saying Shaw is our 3B, and Bregman is the plan B to negotiate a Cubs-friendly contract. He hasn’t moved Hoerner for a SP, because then Bregman has to become plan A for 3B, and Jed loses the leverage like he did with Belli.

[@zmoondawg6825]

With you 100 percent on Bregman. 👍

[@betaraybrian5706]

Im starting to get a little concerned with the payroll and lack of spending after trading Bellinger. I'm not calling for anyones head or anything, but I'd say I'm around a 5.5 on the concern-o-meter, but feels like its going up every week and a half to two weeks we sit on our hands.The lack of transparency and whats transpired in the last couple years makes it impossible to be completely optimistic about the situation. Thanks for the show and everything you guys do!

[@kanderko9449]

Pessimistic is exactly the correct take on this team. As all the other Chicago franchises, they all need new ownership and new front office leadership. Are any of them considered major market teams? As in 2024, do any of them look to be playoff teams this year? Right now I would say probably not.

[@MattDowis]

5/10….the cubs are smart to be careful with relief arms. Those guys can blow up randomly. However, these key bench players that are available should not be getting scooped up by mid level teams when the cubs blow them out of the water financially. This offseason has been good but the cherry on top would be a quality offensive bench player and another major league reliever. Keep up the great work boys!

[@kenproksa1725]

Understand capping off-season $$$ to $230. (Hoyer would be a fool to let other teams know what the budget is though). Gives them $32m to play with. Trade for Alcantara, Triantos, Wicks for Lopez. Sign RP Wyatt and DeJong to backup 3B & 1B. Should be within budget leaving about $8m for TDL and if Cubs playing well Ricketts likely would be open to exceeding tax.

[@rodneyelylesrealestate]

Jed would jump on Bregman for a short-term deal with opt outs, BUT he will not give up those draft picks to do it. Regarding payroll, I will be very surprised if Jed does anything with long-term deals. I expect a few last-minute relief pitcher bargain deals and a utility bat. It is what it is.

[@Gnar_Dogg]

They should 100% be spending more imo. Especially in a season like this where they should be a playoff team.

[@carrienelson3166]

Feeling between disappointed to confused re: payroll. The most exciting thing to me about the Tucker acquisition was that it signaled they wanted to be good even if it cost a bit. Why get Tucker if you don’t want to decide to go for a winning team?

[@Teremei]

I'd like to see SOMETHING significant. Tucker for one year is great. But you really need to solidify this team. Be it a short term Bregman Deal, maybe a lights out closer. This did NOT upgrade the starting rotation so they need another bump somewhere else.

[@jacksprat418-ju5qo]

Are the Cubs EVER going to sign a contract bigger than Heyward's was?

[@dougbaker2755]

My frustration level is about an 8 for the same reason you're frustrated. We have thus far been teased with Kyle Tucker...and then nothing but budget crunching and more reclamation projects. Enough already: the Cubs don't respect their fan base. Perhaps the fan base should start to boycott the Cubs. Something needs to change, and yesterday would be better than today to get something done--something that proves the Cubs mean business!!!

[@jeffgilles6937]

The Cubs have no intention to sign Tucker to a long term deal. He is 1 year and done. Fans need to boycott and stay home.

[@PLNato]

Yes the cubs should be spending more. But you also have to think about it from the aspect of they don’t want to get too close to going over the luxury tax again. Which could leave them losing more money than they already lost. Also they could be saving money to be able to extend Tucker long term going in to the season/half way mark. The cubs are a top 10 team this year. They have very little holes in the roster. This roster reminds me of the 2014-15 rosters. It seems like we are almost there. The prospects are there. The star player is there. The starting rotation is there. All we need is a closer.

[@PLNato]

Also let’s not forget that in 2016 we traded for a top closer. If the cubs come out hot going in to July. We will more than likely trade for a top end closer.

[@Bing413]

I believe that the CBA plays a major part in the finances. If the new CBA has a balanced payroll system, that could signficantly affect those teams at a higher payroll currently forcing those teams to get under budget. The average MLB payroll last year according to spotrac is $166,458,847. The Cubs could be anticpating that and not committing to large long term contracts while maintaining the new young core. I believe that is the strategy at the moment. As far as future moves, I believe there is one or two moves remaining. Sasaki's decision and Bregman's decision would affect greatly what that additional move would be. I believe the Colin Rea add was designed to make Assad and or Wicks expendable in that upcoming move.

[@tracykharp]

Can you guys or someone please explain exactly what is expected with the new CBA? I don’t understand what Ricketts is waiting for.

[@youarethecreator1]

We need a closer to win games. Trade sign for a very solid utility guy that can play 1B and 3B like a Tauchman level quality. Lock those down.

[@MrMohawkTimmy]

I was optimistic and excited when the Cubs signed Tucker and actually thought they might even make him an offer after this season but after them not agreeing on arbitration it looks like unfortunately this is a 1 and done thing, was hoping with the money they saved by trading Belli they would go out and make a move for a solid starting pitcher if Colin Rea is all we are getting, I'm sorry but I'm highly disappointed!!! This team needs 1 more legit starter and a couple solid bull pen arms and they could run away with the division, instead Tommy and Jed are gonna try to go on the cheap in hopes the Brewers fall under expectations. Sad state of affairs. I ..like you Sam am a Cubs fan through and through no matter what and how much this ownership and management disappoint me with their " intelligent spending " Been a fan since I was 9 years old with the great 1984 team! That's the team of my youth that gave me my love for the Cubs! Guys like Ryne Sandberg, Bobby Dernier, Leon the Bull Durham, Ron Cey and Rick Sutcliffe! On the Bregman front unless we are going to trade Nico for a quality starting pitcher I would rather just roll with Shaw at 3rd, I'm very high on the kid and have watched him rake down here in Des Moines. I think the kid is the real deal and has what it takes to be a very solid player and possibly ROY! Thanks for the show as always guys! Go Cubs! 💙 0:09

[@bigran127]

Very frustrated with the Cubs Sam, if the Ricketts don’t want to spend then sell the team to someone who will.

[@randymiller-p7f]

I checked out of bears 2 years ago...great decision

[@born2run995]

Also I love Bregman, but again due to their financial constrictions they would not have room for anyone else. Shorter deal would cost them $26-$30M for him, if they are going to spend $30M more this off season then go out and get a legit closer in Tanner Scott and a bench guy, that's a bigger need. Don't rely on a young inexperienced closer like last year and the 26 blown saves.

[@AlanDraven]

I'm curious about you only having been to the Cubs Con once. I'm a Cubs fan living in Québec (formerly from Montreal and since we lost our Expos, I started rooting for the Cubbies since they were always my fave team next to the Expos). If I lived in Chicago, I'd go to Cubs Con every year, that's why I'm wondering why you haven't been since you were a kid, being such a die-hard fan ⚾️

[@rogerdodger723]

Go John Boccabella. Expos catcher 70's. I loved their hats.

[@JeremyDusenberry]

I like what you saying with bregman and trading Nico. Trade Nico and Assad or wicks and some prospects not named Cassie or Shaw to MN for Lopez and their closer and also sign Pete Alonso

[@OLECHELLMAN]

GET A CLOSER.

[@born2run995]

they need to go over the 1st threshold to be able to compete with Dodgers, Mets, Braves, Phillies and Padres. Otherwise they have no choice but hope the young cheap guys exceed expectations, that's a tough way to contend, it can work but makes it very difficult.

[@joshuasteward6097]

They need to spend more. They need to construct rosters that don't rely on exceeding expectations to reach 90 wins and be contenders. I am a 6 because I don't expect more.

[@iamrangers8351]

The cubs clearly need 1 more high level pitcher. A very good #2 SP or Tanner Scott as an elite relief pitcher. This would replace the Bellinger money (but still less $). I don't Alex Bregman replacing Nico Hoerner is a big upgrade because Hoerner's elite defense/baserunning AND the salary. Only would make sense if they trade Hoerner for a high level pitcher after getting Bregman. Cubs need: High level SP, high level RP and a backup 1B that hits lefties. If they don't address these holes, then I don't think the Cubs should be favorites in NL Central

[@mnight7633]

It’s at a 10 and has been for a few years but I understand the limitations and the absurdity of the top line on these contracts. You can’t win without paying for it unfortunately. Just like everything else- you get what you pay for.

[@mnight7633]

Their moves are not very intelligent either

[@mnight7633]

The fact they only need one or two more moves and they refused to do it is criminal. Should be punishable by prison

[@joshuasteward6097]

What is the "little more" we need to know? They don't spend or recruit with the intent of being a WS favorite. They spend to profit. I believe winning would be more profitable.

[@BigLar56321]

I’m okay, maybe a 5, so long as they get a real closer and a solid utility infielder. The budget discussion is tiring. Not of interest to me. I’m not paid to worry about it. I’ll save my true frustration for the end of the season, if we fall short yet again. This is a must playoff year, IMO. Also, baseball needs a salary cap. This has all gotten ridiculously out of balance.

[@sni6941]

Signings is a business, you need to prioritize things and weigh pros and cons, you need to have a plan, and there are many things all involved together like strings. Funds will never be unlimited, even like the Dodgers. You operate in your financial capabilities. In US, most people don’t have discipline fiscal sense, they go to grocery store and take a whatever beers they see, doesn’t even cross their mind there is a similar beer on sell next to it. They go by feelings, this looks good, this sounds good, go buy. If you do that in business, you running it to the ground. Who suffers eventually ?? Fans! GMs , front office, executives, they got salaries that one year to what you need to make for 10 years. Jed cares about running a good business, and we should appreciate, not bashing him. You don’t know how valuable a person when you lose him.

[@Adam_Flanagan]

Sam, I am fundamentally upset with the decision to financially choose pieces instead of choosing assets. We’ve got six pictures on our 40 man we could lose tomorrow sign to veterans to play on the major league squad and maybe utilize those open 40 men for either more depth from free agency or protecting our future rule five issue players

[@Adam_Flanagan]

What’s the point of shedding payroll contracts like Bellinger to then utilize being cheap in replacements we lost Kyle Hendricks from our “starting rotation” from last year. We lost Bellinger but replaced him and so far we have argued about 2 1/2 million dollars with Bellinger‘s replacement which we did just settle on after $1.5 million in us caving… but Thielbar, Festa, etc are 2025’s Mancini, Barnharts. Why. Why restrict us with our 40 man when these players or better ones will be available in April when the final rosters have been decided for each team then we can make a move

[@ThatColeGuy]

Duh. They're probably not gonna be signing any more players to big contracts (even a Tucker extension) until after seeing how the new cba shakes out in '26 or until after jed is gone/gets a new contract himself.

[@michelleschrom4234]

I’m irritated and frustrated. Not only are the cubs cutting payroll and not spending, but they aren’t giving any explanation as to WHY. 9 of frustration. Mixed signals in trading for Tucker and then a stand still of complete BS since then and it sounds like nothing else is going to happen. I know there is still time, but time is running out. I especially feel bad because of the two parties (Tucker and cubs) not coming to an agreement on his salary a month later. It all smells very suspicious financially.

[@edwardwilliams3185]

Sam, as my old boss said, "We gotta do somethin', even if it ain't right." Snag Bregman, Shaw at 2nd and Nico as a Zobrist type?

[@cmanayf4354]

Hi Sam. Chuck from Milwaukee here. I know i live in enemy territory. 67 yrs old. I guess i question why in the 3rd biggest market in the country we have to have financial restrictions.

[@jeffbartlett8565]

We need a few players, so nothing wrong for them to be smart with the money, though I don't believe they are.

[@cubbyfan1trillion]

I am starting to get discouraged after the Colin Rea move. My hope is that they either decide to sign Alex Bregman or package some players to get Dylan Cease or Luis Castillo.

[@michaelbingham6907]

Fill the holes w/quality

[@philipjohnson7677]

Sincerely commend you for addressing payroll. The ricketts being cheap is the worst thing about this team and has eroded my fandom. I am a DIEHARD lifelong fan and I’ve just grown tired of this obviously cheap effort to squeak into the playoffs.

[@RodneyHennings]

Sam!! The Cubs, are the Bears!! I've been a Cubs' fan since the 60's but since the "World Series" like you, checking out with the Bears, I watch the Cubs but, with🤔🙄👌🏾0 expectations!! I'm not a Jed fan!!😒

[@RussWilliams-fz6yh]

What does it take to be beyond pissed

[@jeffgilles6937]

The Cubs have no intention of spending the Bellinger money. Rickets needs to lower ticket prices to mid market teams.

[@ColeTron]

I'm okay with how the Cubs are spending. None of the other teams in their division are going above the luxury tax either. If the Cubs were the first to do it, I would feel like they were just buying the division. The Cubs should be able to pull things together and win their division without out spending the other teams. If they have some money left over when the season starts, it just means they'll have some to spend at the trade deadline. I trust Jed to get good players instead of just spending to spend. However, after saying all that, I'm tired of Wisconsin owning Chicago in both realms of baseball and football. I don't even live in Illinois any more, but it irks me that my teams can't beat Wisconsin of all places.

[@everetttauscher8377]

I think the CUBS should spend more to get a quality starter and possibly a backup 1st baseman at least.

[@matthewhagemann6653]

They need to get up to the luxury tax. They aren't a small market team.

[@tmk128]

I hear the Padres are out on Sasakl .

[@jamesfarley4830]

We should be winning the division every year but not spending enough on top players it will be the same finish in 2nd place. We have the best fan base no excuse not spending to win

[@flatusexpellus1779]

If this year the player payroll is only 46% of team revenue of 500mil+ then we have to ask questions about where that other 30mil+ is going, that should be spent on the field... after hearing Tom's own comments that slip out each year, it sounds to me like most of the family is just super obsessed with money in general and their share of all the money, and they way over-react and panic over the ebbs and flows of mlb business... would still like to know where all that extra money from those tiny payrolls from 2012-15 went... 3 of those years it was 96-104 and 2015 was only 134mil w all those extra playoff games... there should have been 150mil set aside to cover lux tax penalty overages for 2017 and Tom should have been happy to get creative w Dexter or truly replace him and put somone who can close with Wade Davis and Dodgers series would have been much different... Tom owes the fans an apology for over-reacting to a stupid tiny 3.8mil tax penalty from 2016... thats what the saved 150mil was supposed to be used for... That's exactly where everyone began to be suspicious about the future of the team, and where Tom's reputation took a hit and here we are now... He should come clean about all that extra cash not being used...

[@knowledgeuntamed9177]

You mean are they tying up Jeds hands on purpose? I'm 60/40 Yes

[@mikecrespi1184]

A 5… it’s Chicago and an international brand. They should get another hitter or should have just kept Bellinger.

[@brotherhiram5682]

They are trying to win the 2nd wild card spot rather than the world series.

[@vincentgerage]

I feel like the cubs are a top 5 crown jewel team in baseball, if we aren’t top 5 in payroll within 2 years I will start to protest. I think we have a nice farm and don’t feel the need to go spend but I’d rather trade the farm and go all in this year.

[@bob9550]

Tom Ricketts and the Cubs toss nickels around like they’re manhole covers! Cheap to a fault, Jed has relied on dumpster diving to build his relief pitching staff and when they break down due to overuse, the team’s season usually dies with a whimper, not a bang. We have high ticket and concession prices rewarded with lackluster results, year after year. Cub fans deserve more than a lineup full of underperforming (largely) player living on a wing and a prayer!

[@danr154]

need a high leverage reliever and ill calm down. until then im at a 7

[@rebth1st]

I think that the Cubs are dumpster diving on some players and skimming the margins on others. They could have traded for Tucker and KEPT Bellinger. They could also sign Bregman, keep Nico and let Shaw compete for a roster spot. I also think the luxury tax limit can be exceeded if they really want to win, but they do not.

[@mspannarbor]

Bregman could be in the mix at 1st too

[@jeffbartlett8565]

5

[@sni6941]

If Jed is like Sam and the Cubs fans, players agents will have a feast on the Cubs! There will be more bad signings like Hayward and we will never recover from those signings like the Rockies.

[@jeremymishefske1754]

This is the team we will have opening day. I feel bad for Matt Shaw as he is being billed as our Savior. He is a second going to play third base. Our starting pitching staff is Steele and Shote then pray and dont have a closer. I think we will win 82 to 84 games this year and no playoffs. I have been a Cubs fan since 1976. I hope I am wrong. Jed told Kaplan last night that we are done spending. Love the show Sam!

[@anthonyharmon12]

I don’t really want them to go over the luxury tax again so I’m not disappointed in the number of money they’ve spent. I’m just upset that this amount of salary cap has given us such a mediocre team.

[@ThatColeGuy]

It would be on brand for hoyer to trade tucker at the tdl if the cubs are pretty far out of 1st or out of the wild card

[@nelsonmadruga5043]

8. The Cubs are making the same bet at 3rd base as last year. Cubs are down a Cody and up a Kyle, but I don't want to lose Cody's production. I want Cody production plus Kyle which we could take care of at 3rd base. Trade Nico to Seattle, and get Luis. Move Shaw to second where he belongs and get a 3rd baseman. We waited so long that there isn't a 3rd baseman out there that fits anyways. Closer would be nice but I would rather bet on our current bullpen than an unproven Shaw at 3rd. Lastly, give Kyle his 17m. Damage is already done, you look horrible in the eyes of the fans, kyle isn't happy, and it probably hurt you in the Roki sweepstakes.

[@brianpowers2315]

The Cubs should spend 20m-25m before the season starts. At least 20million. The bullpen cost us so many games and we missed by 1. You can’t go over by 300k -500k and not make the playoffs. We keep saying they’re gonna add this n that. Like it’s a sure thing. And it’s not. It’s reminds me of when the Tribune owned the team. But not that bad.

[@jasonlew8074]

Cubs should be spending more. We are not a mid market team and they need to open their wallet asap.

[@RodneyHennings]

Sam!! If you've read my past comments, you know!! how I feel!!😠