And all of that is without mentioning the effect that Chicago Cubs‘ skipper Joe Maddon has on the situation. Ben Zobrist wanted to play for Maddon again. Was it the thrill of winning with the Cubs or playing for his old manager? A little of both, but it’s clear that Theo & Co. have the upper-hand on the rest of the league when it comes to attracting free agents to Chicago.
The addition made thus far have certainly improved a team that won 97 games last season.