Chicago's rebuild era continues as Cubs, White Sox likely to move stars at winter meetings

The Cubs: After missing the playoffs, fans hope they land more firepower to their lineup and starting rotation.

Yes, but: Instead of bidding for a superstar free agent like Juan Soto, early reports say the Cubs are actively looking to sell, notably star Cody Bellinger.

The Sox: The rebuilding South Siders look to pick up where they left off last year by seeking suitors for their two stars, pitcher Garrett Crochet and center fielder Luis Robert Jr.

• They've already hinted they won't be active in free agency, so signs point to another brutal year.

Zoom out: Local sports fans are ready to put this dreadful year behind them. Several of our major sports franchises haven't just lost but have been cellar dwellers for most of 2024.

The intrigue: In the last 10 days, the Bears and the Blackhawks fired their coach.

• Since the Cubs fired David Ross in late 2023, every franchise except the Bulls has replaced their head coach or manager.
• Fans would not be surprised if the Bulls follow suit after yet another mediocre start and rumors swirling about trading their core players.

Reality check: It might not be getting better anytime soon. The White Sox, Blackhawks, Bears, Fire and Sky are all in various stages of a rebuild, while the Cubs, Bulls and Red Stars could be next.

• The Stars are the only team to make the postseason in 2024. They lost in the first round of the NWSL playoffs.

The bottom line: It's hard to find a period in Chicago history where all of our sports franchises are losing at the same time.