Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Cubs' catchers heading into the 2022 season?
The Cubs are going with Willson Contreras as their starter and newly-signed Yan Gomes as the backup. Gomes signed a two-year, $13 million deal and is a former 2018 All-Star with the Cleveland Indians.
How bad were Andrelton Simmons' offensive numbers in 2021?
Simmons posted a .558 OPS in 2021, which was the worst in baseball among players with 450 or more at-bats. His bat is considered a major concern heading into 2022, and the Cubs may need to platoon him with Nico Hoerner at shortstop.
Who did the Cubs get Nick Madrigal from and how?
The Cubs acquired Nick Madrigal from the Chicago White Sox as part of the Craig Kimbrel trade last summer. Madrigal posted a 3% strikeout rate in the minor leagues and is seen as a key piece to help the Cubs cut down on their league-leading strikeout numbers.
How many home runs did Patrick Wisdom hit in 2021 and what was his biggest weakness?
Patrick Wisdom clubbed 28 home runs in 2021 but posted a 40.8% strikeout rate, which was the worst in baseball among players with 350 or more at-bats. Cutting down on strikeouts is the key to him becoming an everyday third baseman for the Cubs.
What were Frank Schwindel's stats in 2021 with the Cubs?
Schwindel hit .342 with 13 home runs and a slugging percentage above .600 in 2021. The big question heading into 2022 is whether those numbers were for real or just a hot stretch that won't be sustainable over a full season.