The last two offseasons have been slow-moving and dry of significant roster moves for the Cubs. While fans have wanted them to pursue superstar Bryce Harper, fan-favorite Nicholas Catellanos or even a less costly free agent, like D.J. Lemahieu, the Cubs have instead made numerous budget-driven transactions.
Cubs president Theo Epstein admitted at Cubs Convention two weeks ago the luxury tax has been a factor in the club’s offseason. After eclipsing the figure in 2019, they're trying to stay under it in 2020 to avoid repeat offender penalties.
That’s a fine and dandy strategy, though fans have been up in arms over it, blaming ownership of for being frugal.