Each decision can make sense in isolation.
Theo Epstein would not sign a third contract with the Cubs and Major League Baseball needs his experience and seriousness, even if it is only as a consultant.
Jed Hoyer, the new president of baseball operations at Wrigley Field, would not be doing his job if he were not evaluating business scenarios involving Kris Bryant and Willson Contreras.
The Cubs attack underperformed for three consecutive years with Kyle Schwarber in the middle of the lineup.
Swapping Yu Darvish to restart the agricultural system – and free up $ 59 million in wages – could infuse the organization with many young talent.
Together, all of these moves suggest that the Cubs will continue to cut costs for the rest of the winter and cancel the 2021 season.
This is the backdrop for Jon Lester reaching a one-year deal with Washington Nationals, a development reported for the first time …