MESA, Ariz. — With the Chicago Cubs kicking off their first full-squad workout for the season, Chairman Tom Ricketts took a moment to reflect on the team’s journey. This marks the Ricketts family’s 17th year as owners, following the Cubs’ return to the playoffs last season for the first time since 2020. Ricketts emphasized a clear mission: the focus is on winning more World Series titles.
“It’s about winning. All this other stuff, it all leads to one thing, and that’s about winning,” Ricketts stated. He expressed the organization’s goal to consistently field competitive teams that can contend for playoff berths year after year. Ricketts mentioned, “Obviously, we want to win the division — we should win the division.”
During the team meeting on Monday, both Ricketts and manager Craig Counsell addressed the players, emphasizing the effort needed to build a successful team. Counsell highlighted the competitive nature of making the roster and the responsibility that comes with representing the Cubs. Ricketts reminded the players of the pride Cubs fans take in their team and the significance of their role in the community.
The Cubs are approaching the new season with high expectations, bolstered by a roster that remained largely intact from the previous year, enhanced by a few critical additions. Ricketts acknowledged the expectations have only elevated, stating, “Everyone had high expectations last year, and I think they’re higher this year.”
Financially, the Cubs are strategically positioned, sitting approximately $500,000 below the $244 million Competitive Balance Tax threshold. Ricketts reassured fans that the team’s financial strategies allow for flexibility, particularly as the trade deadline approaches, and emphasized that the Cubs successfully navigated the luxury tax situation in 2024.
There lies a degree of uncertainty regarding the upcoming Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations between the league and the MLB Players Association, raising concerns about implications for the next season. However, Ricketts encouraged fans to focus on the present, urging them to enjoy the season despite the looming discussions around potential changes to league policies, including the contentious topic of a salary cap.
As the Cubs strive for success this season, both the organization and its fans remain hopeful for a significant and exciting year ahead. Ricketts concluded with an optimistic note, highlighting a mutual desire for improvement within the league, leaving the discussions to the appropriate parties. With the focus set on winning, the Cubs aim to create a memorable season for their dedicated supporters.