NEWSLETTER
Undoubtedly a busy, busy man this week, Chicago Cubs President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein took a moment to meet with the media last night, and address the Cubs’ plans for the deadline. You can see the bulk of his comments here, here, and here, among other places.
In short, Epstein expressed an approach to the deadline about what you’d expect: if the Cubs are going to make a big move, it’ll be for pieces that provide value to the Cubs beyond just this year. In other words, as we’ve said for a while: no pricey rentals. It simply doesn’t make sense for the Cubs right now.
Epstein expressly ruled in the possibility of rentals, more generally, though – just more cost-effective rentals. The Cubs might do nothing at all if no deal comes that makes sense, but just about everything (besides a pricey rental) is on the table.
Epstein confirmed that the Cubs are looking for a starting pitcher (though they’ve already been pretty transparent about that), as well as a veteran bat. From where I sit, a veteran positional player (preferably lefty) who can spell multiple guys in August and September would be ideal. It doesn’t have to be a Ben Zobrist caliber, and even an outfielder like Will Venable sounds pretty good to me.
Epstein cautioned that nothing significant – in terms of giving up young talent or taking on big money – was close. Of course, as we all well know this time of year, that can change quickly (and words are chosen carefully).
Sahadev Sharma provides a lot of Epstein quotes and context:
Reporter pointed out Hamels been on market for while & asked if deal was to be made, wouldn't have happened already pic.twitter.com/azuFxuwGyG
— Sahadev Sharma (@sahadevsharma) July 27, 2015
More Theo quotes… took this to mean no on guys like Price/Upton as far as rentals are concerned. Which makes sense pic.twitter.com/eWAaNquatK
— Sahadev Sharma (@sahadevsharma) July 27, 2015
Theo being rational when asked if this weekend changed how they approach trade deadline… pic.twitter.com/w9thVN04HD
— Sahadev Sharma (@sahadevsharma) July 27, 2015
