The 2023 season was definitely a success for the Cubs. The team surprisingly won 83 games and the season featured breakout performances from key players such as Justin Steele and Christopher Morel. In 2024, the Cubs have their sights on only improving. The first move of the offseason by the Cubs was a stunning one. Despite exceeding expectations, the team decided to replace manager David Ross with Craig Counsell. Counsell was once the manager of the Milwaukee Brewers, one of the Cubs biggest rivals. With this big move of the Cubs hiring Counsell, the rivalry between the Cubs and Brewers will only grow. Counsell is thought of as a great hire for the Cubs because during his time in Milwaukee he always seemed to get the most out of his team, despite some of the limitations he faced.
Hiring Counsell was a good start in helping the Cubs potentially improve next season. However, there are some holes on the roster that need to be addressed this offseason. For starters, the team needs another star pitcher to pair with Justin Steele. Although the Cubs have pitching depth, they could benefit someone who can throw with high velocity. The team is reportedly interested in Tyler Glasnow, who could help better the team despite his injury history. The Cubs can also improve in their bullpen. While the bullpen wasn’t terrible last season, there was too much reliance on Mark Leiter Jr., Julian Merryweather, and Adbert Alzolay. Adding depth to this area of the team could make a huge difference for 2024. Besides the pitching staff, the Cubs also have some holes at 3rd and 1st base, DH, and center field. The team would really benefit by bringing Cody Bellinger back, but if that does not happen, there are still impact bats and other impact position players on the market that the Cubs could sign, such as Rhys Hoskins and Jorge Soler.