Cubs' Theo Epstein Stepping Down, Succeeded By Jed Hoyer

Cubs President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein is "stepping down" on Friday and will be succeeded by GM Jed Hoyer. Epstein spent nine years at the helm of the Cubs, "spearheading a rebuilding effort that resulted in five postseason appearances and a World Series title" in '16. Epstein in a statement said, "I believe this is the right decision for me even if it’s a difficult one. And now is the right time rather than a year from now. The organization faces a number of decisions this winter that carry long-term consequences; those types of decisions are best made by someone who will be here for a long period rather than just one more year." Epstein did "not reveal his post-Cubs plans, but has said in the past that he would be interested in the ownership of a team" (CHICAGO TRIBUNE, 11/17).