For circumstances of their choosing, the Chicago Cubs' decision to reveal Jed Hoyer's contract extension before the MLB trade deadline suddenly looks like a terrible decision. To be clear, Hoyer being extended after this season was always the most likely outcome, but the immediate aftermath of the deal being reported makes it seem like the goal of the 2025 season has suddenly changed.
In the days since Hoyer's new contract was revealed, the Cubs have gone from being the best team in baseball, in control of their postseason fate while at the top of the National League Central, to entering Wednesday four games back of the Milwaukee Brewers in the division.