After adding Brett Anderson, Eddie Butler and Alec Mills over the last three weeks, general manager Jed Hoyer said the Cubs currently don’t have any deals looming.
But the Cubs are mindful about the length of the season, so they have some built-in financial flexibility as they did last July when they acquired formidable closer Aroldis Chapman.
"We have a nice cushion to do some things," President Theo Epstein said.
Three prominent members of the bullpen — closer Wade Davis, Koji Uehara and Pedro Strop — can become free agents after this season. The Cubs hope Carl Edwards Jr. can continue to improve and play a bigger role and that other young relievers, such as Rule 5 pick Caleb Smith and Felix Pena, can make the most of their opportunities.
Theme central: Manager Joe Maddon revealed three themes for 2017 — be uncomfortable, authenticity and don’t forget the heartbeat.
"If you remain uncomfortable, you will continue to grow and not become stagnant or complacent," Maddon said.
Maddon unveiled his authenticity theme before Cubs Convention last month, adding that "don’t forget the heartbeat" became pertinent during the rain delay in Game 7 of the World Series. Jason Heyward called a players’ only meeting, and Maddon said the Cubs relied on the human element rather than statistical or video help to become united and rally for the victory.
Ross’ role: One of David Ross’ first roles as a special assistant will be mentoring catcher Willson Contreras in the thought process in working with Jon Lester on slowing opponents’ running game.
"We feel good about it," Maddon said. "It’s a really naturally good matchup with Willson and Jon. And we can use that same triangle with David, Riz (first baseman Anthony Rizzo) and Jon and include Willson."
Blond Baez: Infielder Javier Baez continues to sport bleached-blond hair.
"I tried dying my hair and having fewer people recognize me," Baez smiled. "It didn’t work."
Baez will play second base for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic but is more than willing to play multiple positions with the Cubs. Maddon reiterated Ben Zobrist and Baez will play second base in addition to other positions.
Joe Maddon on Kyle Schwarber, Javier Baez, and future gimmicks
Cubs manager Joe Maddon on Kyle Schwarber, Javier Baez, the "That’s Cub" slogan and future gimmicks at spring training on Feb. 14, 2017. (Mark Gonzales/Chicago Tribune)
Cubs manager Joe Maddon on Kyle Schwarber, Javier Baez, the “That’s Cub” slogan and future gimmicks at spring training on Feb. 14, 2017. (Mark Gonzales/Chicago Tribune)
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