The Los Angeles Angels are focusing on enhancing their starting pitching lineup, targeting a crucial spot in their rotation. Recent speculation suggests that MLB veteran Lance Lynn, previously with the St. Louis Cardinals, could be a perfect fit to join the Angels, who have already acquired Yusei Kikuchi and Kyle Hendricks this offseason.

Lynn, at 37, has had a notable career, recently surpassing 2,000 innings pitched and 2,000 strikeouts. Despite battling injuries last season, he demonstrated resilience with a strong record at Busch Stadium. His offseason efforts include a commitment to fitness, aiming to extend his playing career while maintaining competitive spirit.

The Chicago Cubs finished the 2024 season with an 83-79 record, placing second in the NL Central. Despite a solid run differential suggesting a better performance, they missed the postseason for the fourth consecutive year.

Key contributors included Shota Imanaga, who excelled as a rookie pitcher, and Seiya Suzuki, who had a standout offensive season. However, the bullpen's struggles and underperformance from certain positions hindered their success.

Looking ahead, the Cubs have several key free agents and will need to address their catching and bullpen needs to improve in 2025.

The Chicago Cubs are prioritizing their underwhelming lineup this offseason, but enhancing their pitching staff remains crucial. With two strong left-handed pitchers already in place, acquiring a reliable right-hander could greatly benefit their rotation.

Veteran pitcher Justin Verlander, despite his impressive career, struggled in 2024 and may not be the right fit for the Cubs. Analysts suggest the team should avoid taking a chance on him, especially given his declining performance. Instead, focusing on quality arms is the way forward for the Cubs as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Kyle Hendricks, a key player for the Chicago Cubs, faces an uncertain future as he approaches free agency. Despite a challenging 2024 season, where he struggled with a 5.92 ERA and a 4-12 record, Hendricks delivered a remarkable performance in what could be his final home game for the Cubs, shutting out the Cincinnati Reds.

Hendricks expressed admiration for the young talent emerging in the Cubs' organization, hinting at the possibility of his departure as the team looks to build for the future. As he reflects on his time with the franchise, the decision now lies with the Cubs on whether to retain this franchise icon.

In a heartfelt gesture during the Chicago Cubs' final game of the season, outfielder Ian Happ gifted fans a baseball tied with $100 bills to celebrate their support throughout 2024. Fans shared their excitement on social media, highlighting Happ's generosity.

The Cubs concluded their season with an 83-79 record, missing the playoffs for the fourth consecutive year, yet maintaining strong fan engagement with high attendance rates. Happ, known for his kindness, has a history of connecting with fans through similar acts.