12-03-2021, 06:42 AM
Ivy, I think the deals the Rangers landed serve as a good balancing point to what you're saying about players factoring in the strength of the team. Most of the big signings so far have been with non-playoff teams. Obviously I think you're right that if things are equal, or near equal, the chance to win means a lot, but the Cubs have been a winning franchise for several years until this season. It's not like chosing the Lions over the Patriots or something. Assuming it's a deal for several seasons, I don't think players care that much about season 1 if they think the majority of their seasons will be with a strong team.