CHICAGO – The Chicago Cubs hired Carter Hawkins as their general manager on Friday, digging deep into Cleveland’s board as they seek to further their own player development system.
The 37-year-old Hawkins spent 14 seasons with Cleveland, including the last five as an assistant general manager. He also oversaw the team’s player development department.
Chicago has struggled to turn its promising pitchers into successful major league pitchers, something Cleveland has excelled at.
The Indians selected Shane Bieber in the fourth round of the 2016 amateur draft and the right-hander won the AL Cy Young Award last year. Aaron Civale, a third-round draft pick in 2016, was 12-5 with a 3.84 ERA in 21 starts this season. Zach Plesac and Triston McKenzie have also provided positive moments.
The Cubs plan to formally introduce Hawkins as the franchise’s 16th general manager at a news conference Monday.
“I am excited to bring Carter into our organization,” Cubs president of athletic operations Jed Hoyer said in a statement. “He has built a fantastic reputation as a leader through hard work, open mind, humility and intelligence. I enjoyed getting to know him throughout the interview process, and it quickly became clear that we shared the same passion for team building. “.
Hoyer had been looking for a general manager since he was promoted to the top job almost a year ago, replacing Theo Epstein. Hoyer stopped the search after the process was affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hoyer and Hawkins look to reform the Cubs after this season’s 71-91 record made them the worst in the majors since a 66-96 record in 2013.
.