The Chicago Cubs are making significant moves this offseason after finishing the last two seasons with an 83-79 record, positioning them in second place in the National League Central. The team has added notable players Matthew Boyd and Colin Rea to enhance their pitching depth while trading Cody Bellinger to alleviate their payroll burden. However, the most impactful change was acquiring superstar outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros. The trade, involving inconsistent third baseman Isaac Paredes, reliever Hayden Wesneski, and prospect Cam Smith, has sparked excitement among fans and players alike.

Pitcher Justin Steele expressed his enthusiasm on the 'North Side Territory' podcast, highlighting Tucker's impressive skills both at the plate and in the field. Steele noted their past matchups in the minor leagues, recalling Tucker's potential as a future star. Although their MLB confrontations have been limited to three plate appearances, Tucker has made an impact with a double and an RBI against Steele. With three All-Star selections, a Silver Slugger, and a Gold Glove to his name, Tucker is ready to take a leading role with the Cubs, despite uncertainty about his long-term stay. As the 2025 season approaches, the Cubs' prospects look brighter with Kyle Tucker in the lineup.

The Chicago Cubs face uncertainty this offseason, with mixed expectations from fans and analysts. Some hope for aggressive moves from General Manager Jed Hoyer to return to contention, while others fear a repeat of past underperformance.

Despite a solid starting rotation, the Cubs are in dire need of bullpen help and consistent offensive production. Star infielder Alex Bregman has emerged as a potential target, although his fit on the team is still in question.

Ben Brown, a rookie pitcher for the Chicago Cubs, had a tumultuous debut season after being called up due to an injury to ace Justin Steele. Despite a rough start, he showcased his potential with impressive performances, including a 2.11 ERA in April and a notable no-hitter against the Milwaukee Brewers. However, a neck injury sidelined him for the remainder of the season.

As he recovers, the Cubs are optimistic about his future, hoping for a clean scan in mid-November to ensure he can participate fully in offseason workouts. Brown's overall performance showed promise, and the team plans to utilize him as a starter moving forward.

The Chicago Cubs are reflecting on their performance at Wrigley Field, acknowledging that the park's conditions impacted both their offense and pitching. President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer emphasized the importance of considering the park factor as they plan for the offseason.

Despite injuries, the Cubs' starting pitchers achieved the second-best ERA in the National League. Hoyer noted the team's strategy will likely focus on acquiring starting pitching rather than making a splash in the free-agent market.

While fans may hope for a big signing like Corbin Burnes, the Cubs are more inclined to invest in homegrown talent and smaller deals. Hoyer also highlighted the need to address bullpen depth, especially given the unpredictability of injuries.

The MLB offseason has kicked off with the Chicago Cubs making significant decisions. Cody Bellinger has opted to stay with the team, securing a $27.5 million contract for the 2025 season, while veteran pitcher Drew Smyly's contract option was declined.

Looking ahead, the Cubs are focused on enhancing their roster to become competitive. Rumors suggest they may target star pitchers like Corbin Burnes and Blake Snell, but there’s also interest in free agent Jack Flaherty from the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Flaherty, who had a strong 2024 season, could be a valuable addition on a short-term deal, potentially forming a formidable rotation alongside Justin Steele, Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, and Javier Assad. While fans may lean towards acquiring a powerful hitter, adding an elite pitcher could significantly boost the Cubs' competitiveness as they aim for a successful 2025 season.