The Cubs are unlikely to make a big free-agent splash this winter, according to CSNChicago.com's Patrick Mooney.
Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer stressed the dangers of handing out mega-deals to players on the “back half of their career.” By the time most players reach free-agency, there’s a good chance they are already in the decline phase of their careers.
The Cubs remain committed to building from within. Hoyer said that most teams are locking up their young players now, making it extremely difficult to find great, young talent on the market.
Cubs president Theo Epstein said the team is also looking for players that will set the right tone in the clubhouse. David DeJesus, one of Hoyer and Epstein’s first signings, is credited for bringing leadership to the young club.
The DeJesus signing probably reflects how the Cubs will approach free-agency this offseason. The Cubs signed DeJesus to a two-year, $10 million contract last winter. The team also holds a $6.5 million option for 2014. That was the most significant offseason signing the Cubs made last year. The team will likely make similar moves this season.
Based on Hoyer and Esptein’s comments, the Cubs' focus will likely be on locking up their young players and continuing to build from within. They’ve already started that process by attempting to sign shortstop Starlin Castro to a long-term extension.
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