Insider Surprisingly Says Chicago Cubs Are 'Probably Done Adding' Bullpen Players
As Spring Training games continue to roll on, the Chicago Cubs' front office can get a good look at multiple pieces on their current roster and throughout their organization.
This will help give them an idea about if any additional moves are needed before the start of the season.
Overall, the Cubs did a decent job of upgrading their roster.
Re-signing Cody Bellinger was the main thing that pushed them from disappointing into that classification, but they also landed Japanese star Shota Imanaga, a top first base prospect, and two established bullpen pieces.
Chicago could certainly compete in the NL Central with how their roster is currently constructed, but some additional moves would go a long way in helping out.
That's why it was surprising when news was released that they are no longer interested in a former World Series champion reliever.
It's even more surprising that Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic is reporting the front office is not looking for anymore relief help.
"The Cubs will continue to look for upgrades to their roster during the spring, but the feeling around camp seems to be that this is their team ... They are also probably done adding to the bullpen," he writes.
On the surface, this doesn't feel like the smartest move.
Bullpen was a major reason why they failed to make the playoffs in 2023 after injuries piled up and the available players were overworked and underperformed.
Sure, Hector Neris and Yency Almonte give them more proven Major League arms they can call upon, but last year showed there can rarely be too much depth within the organization.
The Cubs likely are looking for bargain deals so they don't go into the luxury tax.
Maybe another player does pop up they can add for cheap.
In all likelihood though, Chicago is done adding and this will be their roster for the most part in 2024.