Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Marcus Stroman has already been floated in MLB trade rumors. It now appears evident why he is being floated, despite All-Star’s desire to remain in Chicago.
Stroman, age 32, signed a three-year contract worth $71 million in 2021 to play for Chicago. He was brought in to provide stability for the Cubs’ rotation, providing a front-line starter who could eat innings and deliver quality starts on a regular basis.
- Marcus Stroman contract: $25 million salary (2023), $23.66 million player option (2024)
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While the Cubs are near the bottom of the MLB standings this season, Stroman has fit in nicely. Across his first 39 starts in Chicago, he holds a 3.09 ERA with a 1.1 WHIP across 224.1 innings pitched in two years.
The 5-foot-7 righty has an opportunity to become one of the top MLB free agents in 2024. While he would have to decline his $23.66 million salary next season, he could earn more in the open market on a long-term deal.
On Saturday afternoon, Stroman went on Twitter and revealed that the Cubs have expressed zero interest in signing him to a contract extension.
“My agent and I made multiple attempts to engage them on an extension. Club wasn’t interested in exploring it now. Will see how it plays out! Love everything about the Cubs organization!”
Marcus Stroman on contract talks with the Chicago Cubs
Chicago’s lack of interest in signing Stroman to a contract extension raises questions about his future. The Cubs’ front office knows he can test free agency this winter, which could result in him leaving for nothing in return. Because Stroman has already received the qualifying offer once in his career, he’s not eligible to be tagged with it again.
- Marcus Stroman stats: 2.42 ERA, 7.67 K/9, .191 BAA, 1.04 WHIP, 21.7% K-rate
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Facing the risk of losing him this winter in free agency and out of the MLB playoff picture, the Cubs could see the incentive of shopping him around the league before the trade deadline. If the right offer comes along, Stroman could easily be traded.
Barring a change of heart from the Cubs’ front office, Stroman will potentially be making his final starts at Wrigley Field in the weeks ahead. Even if he isn’t traded, the disinterest in negotiating an extension would likely be remembered this offseason.
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