The Chicago Cubs have made early offseason moves by re-signing Shota Imanaga to a one-year qualifying offer and adding reliever Phil Maton on a two-year deal. With aims for a second straight postseason and an NL Central title, the team outlines three key priorities: strengthening the rotation, rebuilding the bullpen and replacing Kyle Tucker's production.
The Cubs' 2025 season saw them stabilize their rotation largely through veteran Matthew Boyd, despite his injury history, and rookie Cade Horton. However, with Colin Rea, Jameson Taillon and the return of Justin Steele, the group needs a foundational starter to meet higher ambitions. President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer has shown interest in free agent Michael King and potential trade targets like MacKenzie Gore and Joe Ryan.
In the bullpen, the Cubs relied on a committee approach in 2025, but key contributors Ryan Brasier, Brad Keller, Drew Pomeranz, Taylor Rogers and Caleb Thielbar are now free agents, while Andrew Kittredge was traded to the Orioles on Nov. 4. Maton's signing provides a start, with Daniel Palencia likely remaining as closer after handling most saves in 2025. Porter Hodge could rebound after a tough year, but middle innings remain a concern.
Offensively, the Cubs plan to slot top prospect Owen Caissie into the spot vacated by free agent Kyle Tucker. A projected Opening Day outfield includes Caissie, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki. Despite breakouts from Crow-Armstrong and Michael Busch, the team struggled in the second half of 2025, even with Tucker's injured .360 OBP post-All-Star break. Potential additions like Cody Bellinger are unlikely, while Pete Alonso, Kyle Schwarber, Ryan O'Hearn or Adolis García could provide impact.