MLB’s Worst Fears About the Chicago Cubs Are Coming True

Once considered one of Major League Baseball’s most promising franchises, the Chicago Cubs are now at the center of growing concern across the league. After years of rebuilding, restructuring, and reinvesting in talent, the team’s long-term trajectory is beginning to mirror a nightmare scenario MLB executives had quietly feared — a high-potential big-market team that can’t capitalize on its advantages.

From declining attendance and inconsistent performance to questionable front-office decisions, the Cubs are raising red flags that go beyond just on-field play. Here’s why MLB’s worst fears about the Chicago Cubs may be coming true.

A Big-Market Team Performing Like a Small-Market Franchise

The Cubs, based in one of America’s largest sports markets and backed by significant financial resources, should be perennial contenders. Yet, despite having the tools to dominate the NL Central, they’ve consistently underperformed.

After winning the World Series in 2016 and breaking the infamous 108-year championship drought, expectations were high that the Cubs would build a dynasty. Instead, the team gradually fell back into mediocrity, missing the playoffs multiple times since 2020 and failing to establish any long-term momentum.

For MLB, this is troubling. The league depends on major-market teams like the Cubs, Dodgers, and Yankees to draw ratings, sell merchandise, and grow the game’s popularity. When one of those clubs flounders, it impacts the league’s overall brand power.

Questionable Front Office Decisions

Another key concern has been the Cubs’ front office decision-making. Under the leadership of President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer, the team has struggled to clearly define its direction. Are they rebuilding? Reloading? Or attempting a hybrid strategy?

Recent trades and signings have sent mixed messages. While there have been promising acquisitions — including young talents like Pete Crow-Armstrong and the big signing of Dansby Swanson — the Cubs still lack the high-end, consistent production expected from a top-tier franchise.

The inconsistent roster construction and reliance on mid-level talent have left fans frustrated and the team hovering around .500, unable to break through to elite status.

Fan Apathy Is Growing

One of the league’s biggest nightmares is fan disengagement in marquee markets, and it’s happening in Chicago. Wrigley Field, once considered one of baseball’s most electric atmospheres, has seen notable dips in attendance — especially during weekday games.

While Cubs fans remain among the most loyal in the sport, continued underperformance and a lack of a clear vision have dampened enthusiasm. In an age where MLB is working hard to grow its fanbase among younger generations, losing momentum in a major city like Chicago is a troubling trend.

Television Ratings and Market Influence Decline

Not only are fewer fans showing up at Wrigley, but regional television ratings have taken a hit. The Marquee Sports Network — launched in partnership with Sinclair Broadcast Group as the Cubs’ exclusive TV home — has struggled with distribution and viewership. Many fans still complain about accessibility and quality of coverage, leading to a drop in overall engagement.

MLB had hoped the Cubs would become a model of success for club-owned media ventures. Instead, Marquee has become a cautionary tale, highlighting the risks of isolating a fanbase from traditional access.

Other Teams in the Division Are Gaining Ground

Meanwhile, other NL Central teams like the Milwaukee Brewers and Cincinnati Reds are making bold moves, developing strong farm systems, and becoming more competitive. The Cubs, once the dominant force in the division, are now viewed as vulnerable and lacking clear identity — a shift that has implications for MLB’s competitive balance and playoff excitement.

Can the Cubs Turn Things Around?

There is still hope. The Cubs have the financial muscle, fanbase, and brand power to right the ship. But it requires vision, leadership, and commitment to long-term excellence — something that has been sorely missing in recent years.

Manager Craig Counsell, brought in with high expectations, has the experience to guide a winning team. However, he needs the front office to deliver a roster capable of contending. The clock is ticking, and both fans and league officials are watching closely.

Conclusion

The Chicago Cubs are more than just a baseball team — they’re a historic franchise and a pillar of Major League Baseball’s national relevance. When they succeed, the league benefits. When they flounder, the ripple effects are felt across the sport.

MLB’s worst fears — that a marquee franchise in a top market could become directionless and disconnected — appear to be materializing in Chicago. Unless the organization can rediscover its winning formula, the Cubs may continue down a path that no one in baseball wants to see: irrelevance in one of the league’s most important cities.