Jed Hoyer figured he would be discussing a potential playoff matchup rather than a season that fell far short of expectations.

The Chicago Cubs’ president of baseball operations was frustrated and optimistic, insisting the organization remains in a strong position, even if the team did not produce the way he hoped.

The Cubs came into the season expecting to contend for the NL Central championship. Instead, they finished 10 games behind the Milwaukee Brewers at 83-79 and missed the playoffs for the fourth year in a row.