The Chicago Cubs are in search of pitching depth this winter after a season plagued by injuries. Despite their starting rotation finishing sixth in ERA, the team faced significant challenges with injuries to key players like Justin Steele and young starters Jordan Wicks and Ben Brown.

As they prepare for the 2025 season, the Cubs may look to veteran left-hander Matthew Boyd, who has impressed in the postseason and could fill a swingman role. Boyd's recent performance with the Cleveland Guardians, including a 2.72 ERA, makes him an appealing option for the Cubs' pitching staff.

As the Chicago Cubs reflect on their disappointing 2024 season, president Jed Hoyer and manager Craig Counsell are planning their next steps after missing the playoffs. Hoyer emphasized the goal of constructing a 90-win team to bridge the competitive gap in the National League Central.

With multiple injuries affecting young pitchers and overall performance, the Cubs aim to enhance both their pitching and offensive depth this offseason while maintaining a steady roster.

The 2024 Chicago Cubs faced elimination on September 21, finishing second in the NL Central. The season saw promising performances from pitchers like Shota Imanaga and Justin Steele, whereas several veteran players struggled significantly.

Moving into the offseason, the Cubs have key roster decisions ahead, particularly concerning Cody Bellinger. With a solid core of prospects and a robust pitching rotation, there remains potential for improvement heading into 2025.

Jameson Taillon led the Chicago Cubs to a 3-1 victory over the Washington Nationals, allowing just two hits over six innings. With this win, the Cubs (79-95) maintain a slim chance for postseason contention, needing to close a seven-game gap for a wild card spot.

Dansby Swanson contributed with a first-inning home run, while Mike Tauchman added a crucial two-run single in the seventh. The Nationals continue to struggle, marking their fifth consecutive loss.

The Chicago Cubs have placed left-handed pitcher Jordan Wicks on the 15-day injured list due to a right oblique strain, recalling right-hander Trey Wingenter from Triple-A Iowa in his stead.

Wicks had recently returned from the 60-day injured list and had a rough outing, going 1-2 with a 7.50 ERA over four starts. Meanwhile, Hayden Wesneski was activated from the 15-day IL after recovering from a right forearm strain. The Cubs are currently competing for a wild card spot, trailing the New York Mets by seven games.