CubsPS+ #92: Cubs History Rhymes? Don’t be Larry Himes

Bleacher Bunch Network: A Chicago Cubs Podcast

Podcast Show Notes for Episode 92

In Episode 92, I take a deep dive into the Cubs' current offseason situation, unpacking the big decisions that lie ahead and revisiting some crucial moments in team history that hold powerful lessons for today.

Episode Highlights:

1. Juan Soto Rumors and the Cubs’ Approach:

• A breakdown of the latest rumors around Juan Soto and the implications for the Cubs if they sit out of the bidding process.
• Why Juan Soto is a generational talent worth pursuing, even if it means stretching the budget, and why missing this chance might feel like deja vu for long-time fans.

2. The Larry Himes Era Revisited:

• Taking a look back at the early 1990s when then-GM Larry Himes chose not to keep star pitcher Greg Maddux—a decision that haunted the franchise for years.
• Exploring how the Cubs could be at a similar crossroads today with Soto and other potential big moves, and what lessons they might learn from history.

3. Ownership, Budget, and Spending Philosophy:

• Examining the Cubs’ spending strategy and why fans feel the team should take bolder financial risks, especially with a billionaire ownership.
• Insights into how ownership’s decisions have influenced the team’s on-field results, and where Jed Hoyer’s approach as a GM fits into this narrative.

4. Key Offseason Deadlines and Decisions:

• Important upcoming dates, including the tender deadline on November 22 and the Rule 5 Draft in early December, with potential roster moves and non-tenders.
• Names to watch for, including young players on the brink of roster decisions and possible non-tender candidates like Patrick Wisdom and Nick Madrigal.

5. Next Week’s Special Episode Preview:

• A teaser for next week’s episode featuring Sara Sanchez (Bleed Cubbie Blue, Cuppa Cubbie Blue Podcast), where we will revisit the Cubs’ 2023-24 offseason moves and reimagine how the budget could have been spent differently.

Closing Thoughts:

This offseason presents a rare opportunity for the Cubs to reshape their future. As a fan and follower of this team, I can’t help but feel a mix of optimism and worry as I watch how they choose to proceed. With generational talent on the line, the Cubs' decisions over the next few weeks will have an impact on the team for years to come.

Connect with the Show:

• Subscribe to the Bleacher Bunch podcast feed for in-depth Cubs coverage and analysis.
• Follow along on social media for updates on new episodes and Cubs news. @CubsPSPlus on Twitter/X, Insta, Threads, BlueSky, TikTok and YouTube.

Go Cubs!

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