Two years ago, the Cubs began dismantling the core members of the roster that brought them their first World Series title since the fall of the Ottoman Empire. They declined to tender a contract to slugger Kyle Schwarber and then watched Jon Lester leave in free agency. Eight months later, they traded shortstop Javier Báez, first baseman Anthony Rizzo and third baseman Kris Bryant. Chicago released Jason Heyward in November, and earlier this month let catcher Willson Contreras sign with the division rival Cardinals.
On Saturday, less than two weeks after completing their demolition derby, the Cubs took a crucial step toward building their next contender when they reportedly agreed to a seven-year, $177 million contract with shortstop Dansby Swanson.