The MLB Winter Meetings occurred nearly a month ago, and saw a handful of teams make arguably the biggest splashes the league has seen in years. The New York Yankees, Washington Nationals, and Los Angeles Angels all come to mind as big spenders and major winners.
Yet, someone, there are some previously-active teams that have been so silent it screamed volumes. In fact, some of their approaches this offseason have been downright disgraceful.
Here are the three teams who've had an offseason to forget.
3. Chicago Cubs
What happened to the Chicago Cubs? After winning the NL Central back in 2015, the Cubs became notorious big spenders to win the World Series, which they accomplished in 2016. Now, it seems they're looking to trade third baseman Kris Bryant, and have spent a grand total of $0 in free agency this offseason. Did general manager Theo Epstein fall asleep throughout the Winter Meetings, or what? Will the real Cubs please stand up?
2. Boston Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox named Chaim Bloom, formerly of the Tampa Bay Rays, as their new general manager. Bloom brought along his Tampa ways to Bean Town by looking to shed payroll, at the expense of talent. Two names being brought up as trade options are outfielder Mookie Betts and pitcher David Price. Somehow, they can't afford $4 million for Travis Shaw or $6 million for Steve Cishek. To make matters worse, the organization is engulfed in yet another scandal, a late addition in the wake of the Houston Astros-led sign stealing investigation. Yikes.
1. Cleveland Indians
Just like the Cubs, the Cleveland Indians are in full sell mode, despite being a borderline contender at full strength. The team traded their ace pitcher Corey Kluber to the Texas Rangers for pennies on the dollar. Things only get more gloomy for Cleveland sports fans, as the Indians are expected to trade shortstop Francisco Lindor at some point to acquire prospects. Additionally, they made zero movements in free agency, giving teams like Chicago White Sox and Minnesota Twins hopes of winning the AL Central next season. Embarrassing effort all around.
