Kamil Krzaczynski/AP Photos
The Cubs’ offseason was eclipsed by the White Sox earlier this week, when the South Siders signed Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami to a two-year deal and held a press conference to introduce their newest member.
It was the splashiest move from either Chicago team this winter, inserting a difference-making into the White Sox’ young lineup.
Meanwhile, the Cubs’ moves – other than declining Shota Imanaga’s club options and then signing him to a one-year qualifying offer – have addressed the sparse bullpen and bench.
Some of the contrast between the two teams’ offseason work so far has to do with their respective positions in their competitive cycles.