Chicago Cubs Keeping Two Veterans Around For 2024 Season

November 06, 2023

The Chicago Cubs have made a pair of strategic decisions concerning their 2024 roster, exercising club options on two key players.

Veteran catcher Yan Gomes will return for his third season with the team after the Cubs activated his $6 million option.

Gomes has proven to be a valuable asset, especially after stepping in as the primary catcher when Willson Contreras moved to the St. Louis Cardinals.

In the 2023 season, the 36-year-old not only showed a resurgence at the plate with a .267/.315/.408 triple-slash line, 10 home runs and 63 RBIs, but also continued to excel in his defensive role, exhibiting strong blocking and arm strength that contributed to impressive caught-stealing metrics.

Simultaneously, the Cubs have decided to retain right-handed pitcher Kyle Hendricks for his 11th season by picking up his $16.5 million option.

After a robust comeback from shoulder surgery, Hendricks delivered a solid 2023 season, marked by a 3.74 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, with 93 strikeouts across 137 innings 24 starts,

His consistency and experience will anchor the starting rotation, which is poised to include a blend of upcoming talents and seasoned pitchers, especially in the wake of Marcus Stroman's transition to free agency.

These moves reflect the Cubs' commitment to balance and stability as they head into the new season.

With Gomes providing a dependable presence behind the plate, potentially sharing duties with rising star Miguel Amaya, and Hendricks continuing as a reliable starting pitcher, the Cubs are strategically positioning themselves to build on past successes while integrating new prospects into their lineup.

These decisions, underscored by the rising costs of free agency, demonstrate the Cubs' prudence in shaping a competitive team for 2024. Photo Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

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