FanPost

The current Cubs feel like the 2012 Red Sox

Just read an interesting article, and noticed a parallel between this Cubs team and the 2012 Red Sox. That is to say, this Cubs team is saddled with bad contracts and underperforming players. In particular, Heyward, and Chatwood. Jury is still out on Darvish. The similarities between the horrible Carl Crawford deal and Heyward’s contract are kind of scary.

I feel like the magic starts to rub off with Epstein after a while. It’s probably true with every GM. It’s human nature to probably cherish your own picks and signings long after they had become an albatross. Or maybe it’s just ego. Both Boston and Chicago fans should be forever grateful, but am I alone in feeling like next season is going to be a disaster?

The Brewers and Cards are going to be a threat from the gate and the Pirates may be a dark horse wildcard contender. The offense and bullpen carry a ton of questions, and the rotation may have to carry each, just for the Cubs to be in the conversation for the division.

The Cubs went from production over potential, to success has to come from within since the season ended. Outside of Rizzo, who has exhibited any consistency? Bryant and Baez haven’t. Though I think each is solid. Swing and injury concerns threaten Bryant’s potential to some extent, and Baez is coming off a career year. Does it continue? Who knows?

Next year may bring an end to a few marriages. Maddon is probably gone, but if the Cubs fail, does Epstein bow out too? Do they think about trading Bryant since he will absolutely go to free agency instead of signing an extension? A lot hinges on next season, and it doesn’t look like a lot is set to change. Next year is pivotal to the direction of the franchise and all they have going for them is underperforming youth and pricey failures.

Hey, I could be way wrong. Maybe Daniel Descalso is our missing piece to another World Series. Closers, and bullpen arms are overrated (half true), and corner outfield defense is worth more than offense-$184 million more. Two months to figure it out, and the Cubs get a failing grade thus far. Right now the Cubs are not contenders. Too many questions and not enough answers.

Can't wait to get killed by the Epstein apologists.

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