when you need to cement a playoff berth it makes a lot more sense to go all in than when you are locked into one. this makes no sense. this is a much higher leverage spot in which to use said bullets. If you are the 1998 Cubs, sure, but the strategy can be a bit more conservative with a team that is built to be competitive for several years. Missing the playoffs for a year would suck, but it isn't the end of the world. I'm still not seeing the logic in being more willing to expend resources to improve when the team is more locked into a playoff spot. and, again, there is no way they'd give up the real assets for a half season rental this year. if they trade for a starter, that guy is needed going forward and will be contributing to those several years you're talking about.