UPDATE: The Chicago Cubs are actively pursuing additional pitching staff, with President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer confirming their commitment to bolster the bullpen at the winter meetings in Orlando on December 4, 2023. After signing reliever Phil Maton last month, the team is set to add more arms to enhance their chances in the upcoming 2025 MLB season.
Hoyer stated, “We’re definitely going to sign more relievers this offseason,” indicating a clear intention to strengthen the team’s pitching rotation. The Cubs are facing a critical need for reliable bullpen options, as key relievers Caleb Thielbar, Drew Pomeranz, and Brad Keller are all free agents. With their departure, the Cubs must act swiftly to secure effective replacements.
Among potential targets, former closers Robert Suarez and Pete Fairbanks are at the top of the list, but Hoyer is also considering more affordable options like Steven Matz, Ryne Stanek, and Hoby Milner. The prospect of re-signing Thielbar or Pomeranz remains on the table, although Keller’s price tag might exceed budget expectations, according to league sources.
In a strategic shift, Hoyer noted, “Every team has to make its own decisions on how they allocate resources.” He emphasized that while some clubs might invest heavily in their bullpens, the Cubs are likely to focus their financial resources on acquiring a starting pitcher. This approach reflects a calculated decision to prioritize rotation strength, even as they prepare to welcome back lefty Shota Imanaga, who accepted the Cubs’ qualifying offer.
The hunt for starting pitchers is critical, with names like Tatsuya Imai and Michael King emerging as possible acquisitions. Hoyer mentioned, “We’re definitely looking for another starter,” hinting at the possibility of adding multiple players to the rotation. Currently, King is attracting interest from six teams, including the Cubs, as they keep their options open.
The Cubs are also navigating challenges in their offensive lineup. With right fielder Kyle Tucker likely to depart, there are growing expectations for young talents like Matt Shaw, Moises Ballesteros, and Owen Caissie to step up. Hoyer expressed confidence in Shaw, who delivered an impressive .839 OPS in the second half of last season, stating, “There is zero lack of confidence in Matt.”
However, the uncertainty surrounding their offense adds a layer of complexity to the Cubs’ offseason plans. Hoyer acknowledged, “There is some volatility to some of our performance that I think about,” signaling that while optimism is high, the team must prepare for potential challenges.
As the winter meetings progress, the Cubs’ decisions will not only shape their roster but could also impact their competitiveness in the coming season. Fans are eagerly watching for updates on potential signings and trades that could redefine the team’s future. The urgency to act quickly is palpable, making every development at the meetings crucial for the franchise’s direction.
Stay tuned for further updates as the Cubs navigate the offseason and finalize their pitching strategy.
