Cub Tracks’ star turns

Theo Epstein deserves our eternal thanks (Telander)

Here at Cub Tracks News and Notes, we are celebrating the commencement of our ninth consecutive year of publication (unlike Theo Epstein, we’re not stepping down). As always, * means autoplay on, or annoying ads, or both (directions to remove for Firefox and Chrome). {$} means paywall. {$} means limited views. Italics are often used on this page as sarcasm font. (In the comments section, use @ before and after your remarks @ to produce sarcasm font.)

• Mark Gonzales (Chicago Tribune* {$}): Winners and losers from Theo Epstein’s sudden departure from the Chicago Cubs. “Epstein’s departure Friday with one year remaining on his contract affected the entire Chicago sports landscape ...”
• Jon Tayler (Fangraphs*): As Theo Epstein departs, what will become of the Cubs? “... the talent on hand remains strong (assuming it remains), but the problem in Chicago is twofold.”
• Tony Andracki (Marquee Sports Network*): What Jed Hoyer brings to the table as Cubs usher in new era. “Part of the reason the Cubs are excited about Hoyer’s ascension from general manager to president of baseball operations is the continuity he brings ...”
• Brett Taylor (Bleacher Nation*): If Jed Hoyer had been in charge, it’s possible he wouldn’t have made the Jose Quintana trade. “... his evaluation of Eloy Jiménez was high enough that he had a significant pause in consummating the deal.”
• Mark Gonzales (Chicago Tribune* {$}): Expecting a ripe free-agent crop, the Chicago Cubs are unlikely to fill out their 40-man roster before Friday’s deadline. “Those eligible players who aren’t protected on the 40-man roster will be eligible for the Rule 5 draft on Dec. 10.”
• Evan Altman (Cubs Insider*): Rival execs believe Cubs may conduct ‘Heavy Restart’ this winter. “... just additional evidence of what’s been heavily hinted at already ...”
• Patrick Mooney (The Athletic {$}): David Ross defines the vision that Theo Epstein brought to the Cubs. “You can tell he’s hungry,” Ross said of Hoyer. “This is exciting.” Epstein’s best and worst.
• Brett Taylor (Bleacher Nation*): REPORT: Nationals are considering a trade for Kris Bryant. JP Morosi again. Taylor considers ramifications. Evan Altman also reports.
• Jordan Bastian (MLB.com*): Cubs add 3 to 40-man ahead of Rule 5 Draft. “Corey Abbott, infielder Christopher Morel and righty Keegan Thompson.” As reported on the front page.

Food for thought:

Thanks for reading!