Not only that, but the Cubs eclipsed the $200 million mark for total payroll, clocking in at $209 million according to ESPN and $210,339,448 according to Sportrac. This is a big milestone because this is the first time an NL Central team has eclipsed that number, which should put the St. Louis Cardinals on notice.
While Chicago is a huge market, it is a big change from just 5 seasons ago, when the Cubs were spending under $90 million. It shows that success can bring with it a bigger payroll if the owner is willing and able.