Expect the Cubs to be active players at the top of the starting pitching market, which includes Ranger Suárez, Dylan Cease, Michael King, Framber Valdez, Brandon Woodruff, Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly.
The fact that Jameson Taillon and Matthew Boyd both come off the books after 2026 could help pave the way for a back-loaded, long-term deal for one of those top-tier arms.
Upgrading the bullpen will be a much more involved process, and while they don’t necessarily need to splurge on an expensive closer with Daniel Palencia looking the part, they would be wise to add at least one or two proven late-inning options alongside several low-cost fliers similar to their approach last offseason.
Michael Kopech, Kyle Finnegan, Seranthony Domínguez, Gregory Soto, Phil Maton, Danny Coulombe and Luke Weaver are among the names to keep an eye on, while guys like Raisel Iglesias, Ryan Helsley, Emilio Pagán and Kenley Jansen might prefer a landing spot where they are guaranteed an opportunity to close games.
Finally, looking at the bench candidates, Wilmer Flores is a lefty masher who could be a great fit as a platoon partner for Michael Busch at first base, while Jose Iglesias, Luis Rengifo, Amed Rosario and Miguel Rojas are candidates to fill a utility infield spot. Buying low on someone like Lane Thomas or Hunter Renfroe makes sense if Kyle Tucker walks and they decide to go in-house to address right field.
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