The Chicago Cubs are gearing up for a pivotal 2025 season, aiming to break their playoff drought after finishing with 83 wins in 2024, missing the postseason for the fourth consecutive year. The hiring of manager Craig Counsell from the Milwaukee Brewers didn't yield immediate results, but the acquisition of Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros is seen as a significant boost to their offense. Tucker, known for his MVP-caliber abilities and Gold Glove defense, is expected to enhance the Cubs' performance.

In addition to Tucker, the Cubs have bolstered their roster with depth signings, including catchers Carson Kelly and Matt Thaiss, and reliever Eli Morgan from the Cleveland Guardians. They also signed Matthew Boyd to a two-year deal, addressing their need for starting pitching. The current rotation, led by Justin Steele and Shota Imanaga, is ranked 10th in baseball, with promising young arms like Javier Assad and Jordan Wicks poised to make an impact.

Despite ranking 11th in star power and 15th in depth, the Cubs are optimistic about their future, especially if they can secure Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki, who could elevate their pitching staff significantly. With the potential addition of Sasaki, the Cubs could transform into a formidable contender, supported by a mix of established and emerging talent on the mound.

The Chicago Cubs are set to meet with free agent pitcher Roki Sasaki in Los Angeles, amidst competition from several teams including the Chicago White Sox and Colorado Rockies. Sasaki, a standout from Japan, is currently classified as an international amateur free agent due to his age, limiting his signing bonus potential.

Despite this, he has garnered significant interest from major league teams, with the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees among the frontrunners. Sasaki boasts impressive stats from his NPB career and a successful World Baseball Classic, making him a highly sought-after talent.

The Cubs already have a solid rotation but are exploring options for Sasaki, potentially reshaping their pitching strategy for the 2025 season.

The 2024-25 MLB offseason is heating up with significant free-agent movements and trade rumors. Juan Soto remains the most sought-after player, with teams like the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers in pursuit.

The New York Mets are looking to bolster their pitching rotation, eyeing Sean Manaea and other free agents. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Orioles have signed Tyler O'Neill and Gary Sánchez to strengthen their lineup.

The Philadelphia Phillies are exploring trades involving Alec Bohm, Ranger Suárez, and Nick Castellanos to enhance their roster. The Chicago Cubs are also seeking pitching help, with interest in Walker Buehler.

Lastly, the New York Yankees are considering Thairo Estrada for a utility role, as they prepare for potential changes in their infield.

The 2024-25 MLB offseason is heating up with several key free agents on the move. Juan Soto, the top free agent, is drawing interest from multiple teams, including the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers.

The New York Mets are actively seeking more starting pitching, eyeing Sean Manaea and other free-agent options. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Phillies are exploring trades involving Alec Bohm and Ranger Suárez to enhance their roster.

The Chicago Cubs are also in the market for rotation help, with Walker Buehler on their radar. Additionally, the New York Yankees are showing interest in second baseman Thairo Estrada, potentially as a utility player or to replace Gleyber Torres.

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.