The Cubs convention comes to a close today and while the Cubs tried to make the Kerry Wood signing the big story, there is much more to examine.
Theopolooza
The overall focus of the convention unsurprisingly was Theo Epstein and the new front office.
Theo was clearly uncomfortable with the anticipated rock star treatment. Sorry Theo, these fans haven't seen a front office with a real direction in a while.
It's still a good thing that these fans fully grasp the plan, so the patience level should continue to be as high as Theo's popularity.
Good
Fans
There seemed to be a movement of informed fans asking intelligent and analytical questions. I think these Cubs fans have either been there all along and now feel its safe to come out of their bunkers, and/or some of them have been enlightened by all the talk coming from the new management team.
Good
Woody is back!
The Kerry Wood thing was overly predictable. Yes, it's nice to have him back on the roster, but that PR stunt of announcing his signing at the gala reeked of the same old Cubs way of doing things. I guess there still has to be some of that sappy marketing involved, don't ask my why.
Lame
Ricketts
I am disapointed that Tom Ricketts somewhat criticized the front office for the delay in bringing back the newly appointed cuddly mascot in Wood.
"I'm not sure why the timing ended up the way it did," Ricketts said at the team's annual convention. "We probably could have had that conversation a month ago. My gut would just say that (Cubs president of baseball operations Theo Epstein and general manager Jed Hoyer) were focused on everything else that was going on. We probably could have done it a little sooner."
Ricketts said he did get involved at the end of negotiations for the one-year, $3 million contract Wood signed late Friday afternoon, which also includes a team option for $3 million in 2013.
Ok, I get that Wood is a special player to the organization. I'm glad Theo and Jed Hoyer were more concerned with getting this organization turned around rather than focusing their energies on such a frivolous move.
Ricketts had done a wonderful job in bringing in Theo and the gang and letting them do their jobs. He has given them full autonomy and allowed them to eat salary. Please don't insult their intelligence with the Wood deal.
Does this current plan really call for you to pay a 34 year old set up man $3 million?
Bad
There wasn't much talk about the Starlin Castro incident. However, Castro did sit down with Chicago Police and the talk seems to indicate their won't be charges filed. If that is the case the Cubs have dodged a huge bullet.
It didn't go unnoticed that the Cubs pulled Castro off as the cover boy for the pocket schedules. That is either their way of covering their butts for now, or maybe Castro lost his face of the franchise status.
I doubt the Cubs would be thinking of dealing the talented, young shortstop after this incident. Even if he is completely innocent, with this front office you never know. They don't appear to be afraid to move anyone.
Bad
Accountability
There was a lot of talk coming from the Cubs brass on what they will expect from their players and that the bar will be raised on and off the field.
Accountability from the players seemed to be a prevalent theme over the weekend. I think aside from the side show and the obvious pandering, the front office's messages came across clear and well received.
Good
Overall, the Cubs are moving into modern baseball, the fans are on board, and the meatballs got their moment.
Good
Go ahead and cue "Go Cubs Go".
Now that is bad.
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