2) Signing Jason Heyward
With an honorable mention to Zobrist, who will be a very valuable piece to the Cubs over the next four years, adding Heyward is the kind of move that can take the Cubs from an NLCS appearance to a World Series title. Not only was Heyward the best available player at a position of weakness for Chicago, the move was reflective of the type of culture Epstein has instilled.
Heyward signed with Chicago for $184 million over eight years despite the fact that he had a chance to make closer to $200 million with the Washington Nationals and potentially some other teams. Chicago provided the best chance to win a title and is now a marquee destination for free agents, thanks to Epstein.
On paper, Heyward should be worth the price, particularly if the Cubs advance to the World Series in the coming years. Heyward is coming off of a 6 WAR season according to FanGraphs and is much younger than typical free agents at just 26 years old.
Chicago struggled with corner outfield defense at times this year, as Kyle Schwarber and Jorge Soler are poor defenders. Much of Heyward’s value comes from his defense, so he has a chance to improve one of Chicago’s biggest weaknesses. His addition also opens up trade possibilities for the Cubs to get more pitching depth in exchange for Soler.
How well Heyward does in the coming years will determine how good of a move this was for Chicago, but for now it looks like one of the best of Epstein’s time as President.
Next: Hiring Joe Maddon