The Chicago Cubs made a bold statement this offseason by hiring Craig Counsell with a record-breaking $40 million contract over five years. However, this high-profile move has not yet yielded the desired results, as the Cubs are struggling in 2024. The team’s performance has been lackluster, and Counsell’s management has been under scrutiny. As the Cubs grapple with their current roster and performance issues, it’s worth considering whether they might have been better off investing in other players rather than spending so much on a manager. Here’s a look at three bargain-free agents who could have provided valuable contributions at a fraction of Counsell’s salary.
First on the list is Erick Fedde, who returned to MLB on a reasonable two-year, $15 million deal with the Chicago White Sox. Fedde showed reliability as a starting pitcher, posting a solid 3.11 ERA and 1.14 WHIP in 21 starts before being traded to the St. Louis Cardinals. Despite his unremarkable stuff, Fedde’s ability to induce soft contact and provide consistent innings would have bolstered the Cubs’ rotation depth. With the Cubs’ pitching staff struggling, adding a dependable arm like Fedde’s could have helped stabilize the bullpen and improve overall performance.
Lastly, Michael Lorenzen, who signed a one-year, $4.5 million deal with the Texas Rangers, represents a significant missed opportunity. Despite a mixed 2023 season, Lorenzen’s strong start to the year and potential for both starting and bullpen roles made him a valuable asset. Lorenzen’s versatility and proven track record in the bullpen could have addressed some of the Cubs’ pitching deficiencies. His recent performances with the Kansas City Royals demonstrate that he could have been a solid addition to the Cubs’ roster, either as a starter or a high-leverage reliever.
In hindsight, these free agents, each available for far less than Counsell’s annual salary of $8 million, might have provided the Cubs with essential upgrades to their roster. While Counsell’s long-term impact remains to be seen, the immediate benefits of investing in these players could have potentially altered the Cubs’ current trajectory.