Chicago Cubs After back-to-back 83-79 seasons at Wrigley, we’re entering an offseason where it’s never been more apparent that the on-field product isn’t good enough and has now missed four straight postseasons.

There’s a lot to like about the roster, but it’s missing something that has long kept Chicago from title contention. The team thought they had added the missing piece by hiring a top manager last season. Craig Advisor The highest amount paid in Major League Baseball history. And that doesn’t mean Counsell is the problem in 2024, but he’s clearly not the solution either.

Perhaps a superstar Counsell is extremely familiar with could be the answer. 2021 Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes is available as a free agent and will be the most sought-after pitcher on the market. While his market is almost certain to exceed the $200 million range, Counsell’s connection to Burnes may date back to their days together. Milwaukee Burnes’ appearance on the scene could have led him to Chicago. Erik Beaston of Bleacher Report He predicted Ace would sign for the Windy City right after what was about to happen Fifth consecutive Cy Young top-ten finish.

“Adding a legitimate ace like Burnes immediately strengthens that area of ​​the roster and allows the front office to look for quality bats to bolster the team’s power hitting,” Beaston wrote. “It fits, there is history between the pitcher and his manager, and it puts Burnes back in the NL Central, a division he knows very well.”

Cashing in on Burnes would instantly give the Cubs arguably the best rotation in baseball. Shota Imanaga The year 2024 was a very pleasant surprise when it emerged. Justin Steele stability in the last few years and Jameson Taillon. Although rotation was not the team’s biggest problem last season, adding a well-intentioned ace to an already very solid team ensured the formation of a group capable of taking Chicago directly to the title fight.

After all, this seems unlikely jed hoyer He’ll be willing to sign Burnes at his given number, but if ownership is willing to open the checkbook, it would create a dream sales team.