Fans of the Chicago Cubs know the saying “there’s always next year” all too well.
It’s been with the franchise for over a century.
However, 2016 was the one season where fans could proudly call the team champions.
But since then, the road to another championship has been rough.
While the Cubs have made the playoffs three times since their World Series win, they were horrible in 2021 and 2022.
With two consecutive losing seasons, fans can only look towards 2023 for success.
However, are the Cubs ready to become contenders once again when 2023 comes?
Cubs Are Trying To Make Improvements Ahead Of 2023
The Cubs left 2022 with some horrible numbers, as they were in the bottom third of statistics.
Their runs scored (22nd), RBI (22nd), and strikeouts (25th) put them in the bottom part of offensive statistics.
However, their pitching was even worse, as Cubs pitchers allowed 731 runs (21st), 207 home runs (28th), and 540 walks (24th) in 2022.
But the Cubs have hit the free agency market to improve their roster.
Breaking: Cubs sign SP Jameson Taillon.
— Out In The Field (@OutInField_) December 7, 2022
With the team signing Jameson Taillon, Brad Boxberger, and Cody Bellinger, they are addressing some of their issues from last season.
However, are these moves enough to help them improve on their 74-88 season in 2022?
Cubs Need More Work Before They Can Become Contenders
There’s plenty of work required in Chicago if the Cubs want to be contenders again.
But that work can’t be done overnight.
While the moves so far this offseason are helping, it’s not enough to make them contenders.
They need some better coaching, as David Ross has only one playoff season in his three seasons as the Cubs manager.
If he can make improvements, maybe the Cubs can become contenders in a year or two.
NEXT: Cubs Land A Veteran Reliever On Cheap Deal
Mary StClair says
So will we get any top guys to sign? Any idea who?
If we get the guys that are hurt healthy. Some more pitching we win division.
Mike Radosevic says
Who’s going to catch the ball when the picher pitches it? Who’s going to field it if it’s hit up the middle? Might want to figure out the “little things” before any talk about contecting..lol