Having been one of the highest profile free agents to leave the Chicago Cubs in recent years, and after having returned to the Cubs this year, Jake Arrieta certainly has a unique perspective on the guys walking through their years of walking. And, as we discussed at length, the Cubs are absolutely full of players in their year of walking.
So, when it comes to the brightest stars in the Cubs who have spent all their careers here, but who are heading to the free agency after this season, I was definitely interested in hearing Arrieta’s perspective.
“I don’t know how much advice these guys need from me on this subject,” Arrieta this weekend, for The Athletic. “I would like them to try to get this out of their head as much as they can, which is probably impossible to do 100 percent. Because, let’s face it, this is a great moment in everyone’s life and in the lives of their families. It is a big part of the next phase of your career.
“First of all, the most important thing is to develop that team bond here in Chicago this year, doing your best in each of your skills. Obviously, if they manage to do that and stay on the pitch, they will be well rewarded. It’s kind of bittersweet, I’m sure, for each of these guys. They have all been here for a long time. It is difficult to take off the Cubs’ uniform. “
Difficult to remove the Cubs’ uniform. It touches a little stronger than a guy who left and then came back.
Undoubtedly, Arrieta is right in saying that it is impossible for guys like Kris Bryant, Javy Báez and Anthony Rizzo not to think about the combination of imminent free agency and possibly also at the end of their time with the Cubs. But Arrieta is probably also sure that, as far as possible, staying focused this year and this year alone will probably be the best for everyone. So, after a good season – if no extensions were signed – these guys can make the right decisions for them at that moment.
I can say this: it is definitely strange to think of these three leaving after this year … and returning in three years as Arrieta.