The Cubs and the Cardinals could both add to their payrolls before the end of the '09 season. According to the Chicago Sun-Times and the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, each has the money to -- if it's deemed appropriate -- boost their team by the closing months of the season.
Both situations aren't all that similar, as the Cardinals have about $93 million allocated for the 25-man roster as opposed to over $100 million from last year. The Cubs are in the midst of a team sale where spending money is a little risky. With a payroll of nearly $120 million last season, Wrigley Field is expected to house a team of closer to $130 million this year, but Cub officials still think they have the revenue to spend later in the year.
The difference I see is that the Cardinals have the money in their wallets and if they want to spend it...they will. Now, it's also likely that DeWitt and company threw some PR to the fans to make us think they have intentions to bolster the team. But we at least know money is available, whether or not its spent. And, although this goes without saying, adding to the team will only happen if the Cardinals have a realistic shot at making the playoffs.
Oppositely, the Cubs expect revenue to be on par with other years, even if sponsorship may be a little down due to the economic situation. Attendance will be the same at Wrigley, WGN will still make a killing and merchandise will probably bring in just as much money as it ever has.
But once the Cubs are finally sold, the storm of a change-of-the-guard will calm and the new owners can breathe a little easier and take a good look at the financial situation. When that time comes, and assuming the Cubs will be in the hunt for the division title, moves will be made. We all know this team is starving for a championship. The fanbase grows more and more tired of waiting to hang Wrigley's first world title banner.
In my opinion, the window is closing on this team as the roster is getting older and the superstars are really getting older. It's been clear over the past couple seasons that the suits agree with me, as the Cubs have poured money into bringing in big names year after year. They have to win, and they have to win soon.
Now the big question is, will both teams have enough to get to the point where spending would be an option?
Thursday, March 19, 2009
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