How I feel about Marcus Stroman shouldn’t impact what the Cubs decide regarding his future with the team beyond July. Yet, the mixed messages leaves me wondering about their understanding of the big picture.

Stroman has repeatedly expressed the desire to return to the team or extend beyond this season (he’s got a player’s option), but Cubs management isn’t cooperating. I’m not sure if Stroman has hit his high point and will regress next season (and beyond) or if he’s trending positively. What I do know is that he likes it here and has been performing well at home. I don’t know how many free agent pitchers are lining up to play for the Cubs. They are in dire need of aces, yes plural, aces.

I respect that they might be playing it close to the vest. Does anyone wear a vest anymore? Maybe, they’re going to flip him for multiple prospects that will bolster their staff in coming months? It’s not like they’d be trading from a perceived strength. From what I’ve read and heard, Cub fans haven’t been happy with how the team is handling things.