How Theo
Worked His Magic

Theo Epstein took over the Cubs in 2011 after a 71-win season. This year, they won 103 games -- the most for the franchise in 106 years. How did it happen? We examine all his moves, big and small.

The Chronology

The Moves

Jan. 6, 2012

Acquired Anthony Rizzo and Zach Cates from the Padres for Andrew Cashner and Kyung-Min Na

July 31, 2012

Acquired Kyle Hendricks and Christian Villanueva from the Rangers for Ryan Dempster

June 6, 2013

Drafted Kris Bryant with the second overall pick

July 2, 2013

Acquired Jake Arrieta, Pedro Strop and cash from the Orioles for Steve Clevenger and Scott Feldman

July 5, 2014

Acquired Addison Russell, Billy McKinney, Dan Straily and cash from the A's for Jason Hammel and Jeff Samardzija

Dec. 15, 2014

Jon Lester signed a six-year, $155 million contract as a free agent

Dec. 8-15, 2015

Ben Zobrist signed a four-year, $56 million contract, and Jason Heyward signed an eight-year, $184 million contract

July 25, 2016

Acquired Aroldis Chapman from the Yankees for Rashad Crawford, Billy McKinney, Gleyber Torres and Adam Warren

The results