Title: Chicago Cubs Contemplate Marcus Stroman’s Contract Extension as Trade Deadline Looms
Subtitle: Cubs organization keeps options open, seeks team performance evaluation before making a decision
CHICAGO — According to sources close to the organization, the Chicago Cubs are currently hesitant to sign Marcus Stroman to a contract extension before the August 1 trade deadline. The team prefers to assess their options and evaluate the team’s performance over the next month, as it may impact the budget for the 2024 season.
Heading into Saturday night’s game against the Cleveland Guardians at Wrigley Field, the Cubs held a 38-42 record. Surprisingly, despite their average performance, they found themselves only 4 1/2 games out of first place in the National League Central. Moreover, the Cubs were the only team in the division with a positive run differential (plus-32).
Stroman, a pitcher who possesses the ability to opt out of his contract after this season, has emerged as a potential trade market target or a significant asset for the Cubs in the second half of the season. Despite pitching at an All-Star Game-worthy level, there are no expectations for a surprise contract extension for Stroman, according to insiders.
When approached about the situation, Stroman expressed his contentment with the Cubs and their front office. He stated that while he did not believe they were currently in a position to offer him an extension, he would love to explore the possibility of signing back with the team as a free agent in the offseason. Stroman’s presence and performance have been highly regarded by the team, with manager David Ross even referring to him as the team’s MVP due to his exceptional on-field performance and reliability.
The unusual step of discussing his contract situation on Twitter was taken by Stroman to present his side of the story and dispel any misconceptions about his demands or desire to stay in Chicago. However, Cubs president of baseball operations, Jed Hoyer, refrained from commenting and declared that the team’s policy is to handle such matters privately.
Managed by Brodie Van Wagenen, the former New York Mets general manager who now serves as the chief operating officer at Roc Nation Sports, Stroman’s representation may play a significant role in potential negotiations. While Van Wagenen traded for Stroman during his tenure with the Mets, he did not negotiate the pitcher’s current three-year, $71 million contract with the Cubs.
Hoyer previously mentioned in April, after Ian Happ’s contract extension, that negotiations would likely be put on hold until the end of the season, allowing for potential candidates to emerge. However, if the Cubs decide not to trade Stroman before the upcoming trade deadline, there remains a possibility that they will revisit the idea of extending his contract before he reaches free agency. It’s worth noting that the Cubs would not be eligible for draft-pick compensation if Stroman signs with another team this winter, as he is not eligible for a qualifying offer.
As the team’s ace, Stroman’s exceptional performance on the mound, boasting a 9-5 record and a remarkable 2.47 ERA, has solidified his status as a key contributor. Furthermore, his consistency and durability provide the Cubs with flexibility in utilizing their bullpen in various ways. Stroman’s presence at Wrigley Field also brings a unique combination of confidence and swagger to the team.
The Cubs will continue to monitor Stroman’s performance and evaluate their options as the trade deadline approaches. It remains to be seen whether a contract extension for the talented pitcher will be on the horizon or if the team will explore trade scenarios. The future of Stroman’s tenure with the Chicago Cubs hangs in the balance as the organization navigates this critical decision.
(Photo of Marcus Stroman: David Banks / USA Today)