Cubs Rumors: Marcus Stroman's recent history could cause him to opt in to $21 million player option

The 2023 season has been a complete roller-coaster ride for Chicago Cubs pitcher Marcus Stroman. At one point, Stroman was an ace, chasing a Cy Young and a big-time contract extension with the Cubs. Fast forward to last month and Stroman began struggling, finding his ERA rise near 4.00 before ultimately landing on the injured list.

Now there's been another setback for the Cubs starter, as Stroman experienced rib discomfort and won't be activated tomorrow for his planned return start.

This setback is just another bump in the long ride that Stroman has found himself on this season. At one point, he was the biggest trade target on the market with a good chance to see a multi-year extension worth around the ballpark of $100 million. But now, the odds are high that Stroman will opt in for his $21 million player option, which would give him the security he needs.

This decision will likely be best for both sides, as the Cubs would be happy to have him back at the price tag, while Stroman gets another chance to play where he wants to while proving he's worth more than that number. It's a disappointing turn of events for Stroman, but there's still some light in the story for him.

Cubs Rumors: Nick Madrigal may not have a place in the Cubs future plans

Nick Madrigal has played a decent-sized role for the Cubs this season. But as the season goes on and the Cubs show to have a decent amount of depth throughout the organization, Madrigal's future with the Cubs sits in question.

Jake Misener of Cubbies Crib said it best:

Madrigal could find himself as one of the Cubs that sits on thin ice down the stretch of the season. Chicago definitely has a few players in that category, especially if they miss the postseason.

The addition of Jeimer Candelario will likely spell trouble for Madrigal's future with Chicago. If Candelario is resigned in the offseason, Madrigal might as well pack his bags.

Cubs Rumors: Cubs top prospect Pete Crow-Armstrong continues to dominate the minor leagues

For the entirety of his professional career, Pete Crow-Armstrong has shown time and time again that he is too talented for the level that the Cubs have him at.

This began in Single-A and has translated as he moved to Double-A and now Triple-A. The outfielder features a mix of speed and power that is rarely seen for a prospect at the age of 21. Not to mention, his glove is his best tool, and he projects as an incredible defensive outfielder in the big leagues.

In 10 games at Triple-A, he's slashing .275/.408/.575 with three home runs and three doubles. His OPS is near 1.000 and it's nearly 100 points higher than his Double-A OPS this season. In 83 total games in 2023, the outfielder has slugged 17 home runs, including a few tape-measure shots. To go along with this power, he's swiped 30 bases during the season, with 27 of those coming at Double-A.

The highly touted outfielder likely won't be brought up until there's a clear spot for him to play every day, but when he is brought up, expect him to bring fireworks with him. Crow-Armstrong is a truly special talent and he's going to put the MLB on notice sooner than later.