Cubs seek additions to young, talented core

"I think it's clear we have enough talent to compete," Epstein said after the 2014 season ended. "Do we have enough talent to win? That's the beauty of baseball. You don't know until you try. This is the first time we've had enough talent to compete. I believe when you're competing, you have to set your sights high."

The Cubs look to add to their roster during the Winter Meetings, which officially begin Monday in San Diego. They made the biggest splash by signing free-agent manager Joe Maddon on Nov. 3 and now need to put some finishing touches on the roster. Can Epstein find what he wants in San Diego? Stay tuned.

Club needs

Starting pitching: The Cubs made their pitch to free agent Jon Lester in mid-November, reportedly offering the lefty a six-year deal of more than $130 million. Lester, who would join Jake Arrieta, Travis Wood and Hendricks in the rotation, has to decide if he wants to leave the American League and rejoin Epstein, who was his boss in Boston. If Lester goes somewhere else, will the Cubs pursue another free agent, such as Max Scherzer? Or could they sign a less expensive option, such as Jason Hammel? Epstein has scouted who will be available in free agency after the 2015 season and may decide to wait if Lester says no.

Catcher: Free agent Russell Martin turned down the Cubs for a chance to play with the Blue Jays. That doesn't necessarily mean the Cubs are looking for another catcher to replace Welington Castillo. The Cubs can go into 2015 with Castillo, who has improved defensively but did struggle offensively last season (.237) despite hitting a career-high 13 home runs.

9/23/14: Welington Castillo drives a two-run home run to left field for his 13th of the season, putting the Cubs in front with a 2-0 lead

Bench: The Cubs would like to add some veteran players and left-handed bats if possible, but those players will have to be happy with part-time roles. The youngsters on the roster are expected to get most of the playing time. The other goal is to find players who can get on base, such as infielder Tommy La Stella, acquired from the Braves in November.

Who they can trade if necessary

RHP Edwin Jackson: Jackson is an enigma. He has been durable, but he only posted seven quality starts last season after seven straight years reaching double-digits in that category. Batting average of balls in play against the right-hander was a career-high .357 this year, plus he's owed $26 million over the next two seasons. His last appearance was one inning in relief, and there was talk about switching the right-hander to the bullpen.

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Cubs seek additions to young, talented core