If they sign Ohtani, and also have Swanson who both will be in early 30s, they've got to do some spending to not waste those early years of contract. They can't just say ok we spent X amount on a couple big time players, now enjoy them for 162 games and hopefully a playoff round or two.
Also
This will likely be Bote last season with the cubs, he owed 5.5 mil, has club options for 25 and 26 for 7 mil each. Kinda sucks to be paying a guy that much to play in AAA, I wonder if Counsell will give him an opportunity to make team in ST.