Key Offseason Changes
The Cubs made the biggest splash of the offseason by signing Alex Bregman to a five-year, $175 million contract, the third-largest deal in franchise history. The two-time World Series champion brings Gold Glove defense and a championship pedigree to a Cubs team that reached the playoffs in 2025 but lacked postseason experience. The deal includes $70M in deferred money and a full no-trade clause.
The front office also acquired Edward Cabrera from the Marlins, trading top-50 prospect Owen Caissie for the high-upside arm. Cabrera's electric stuff could slot into the middle of the rotation if he harnesses his control. The bullpen underwent a complete overhaul with five key signings: Phil Maton (2yr/$14.5M), Hunter Harvey, Hoby Milner, Caleb Thielbar, and Jacob Webb. Manager Craig Counsell noted the relief corps "looks different the most" entering spring training.
Chicago also retained Shota Imanaga after his dominant rookie season and brought back Colin Rea as rotation depth. The major concern heading into 2026 is Justin Steele opening the season on the IL, with a return expected around June.
Projected Starting Lineup
| Order | Player | Position | Prop Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nico Hoerner | 2B | Elite contact, 30+ SB potential |
| 2 | Seiya Suzuki | RF | Power breakout in 2025, 30 HR upside |
| 3 | Alex Bregman | 3B | $175M man, 3.5 WAR in 114 games 2025 |
| 4 | Ian Happ | LF | Switch-hitter, 25+ HR power annually |
| 5 | Dansby Swanson | SS | Elite defense, bounce-back bat? |
| 6 | Michael Busch | 1B | LH power, breakout candidate |
| 7 | Pete Crow-Armstrong | CF | Elite glove, developing bat |
| 8 | Carson Kelly | C | Veteran presence, lineup anchor |
| 9 | Matt Shaw | DH/UTIL | Super-sub, strong 2025 second half |
The addition of Bregman gives the Cubs four legitimate 25+ HR threats in the heart of the order. Seiya Suzuki broke out in 2025 with 30 homers, and Ian Happ continues to be a model of consistency. The key question is whether Dansby Swanson can bounce back offensively after a disappointing 2025 campaign. Matt Shaw moves into a super-utility role after his strong rookie showing, providing Craig Counsell with lineup flexibility.
Projected Starting Rotation
| Slot | Pitcher | Throws | Prop Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| SP1 | Shota Imanaga | L | Elite 2025 rookie, ace upside |
| SP2 | Cade Horton | R | Top prospect, rib injury recovery |
| SP3 | Matthew Boyd | L | 2025 All-Star, consistent performer |
| SP4 | Edward Cabrera | R | Electric stuff, control question |
| SP5 | Jameson Taillon | R | Veteran stability, innings eater |
Shota Imanaga emerged as the ace after a brilliant 2025 rookie campaign, featuring a devastating changeup and pinpoint control. Cade Horton was tracking toward ace status before a rib injury ended his season early, making his health a critical spring storyline. Matthew Boyd's 2025 All-Star selection validated his resurgence, while Edward Cabrera brings upside but significant control risk. Justin Steele (IL) is expected back around June, potentially giving the Cubs a six-man rotation for the second half. Colin Rea provides valuable depth after logging 159.1 innings last year.
Bullpen & Closer Situation
Closer: The role appears to be up for grabs entering spring training. Phil Maton has closer experience and signed the largest deal ($14.5M/2yr), making him the frontrunner. Hunter Harvey's triple-digit velocity could also earn late-inning work. This is a situation to monitor closely during spring training.
Setup: Hunter Harvey brings power stuff as a potential high-leverage arm. Caleb Thielbar provides lefty specialist value, while Hoby Milner has previous experience with Craig Counsell in Milwaukee. Jacob Webb was excellent from 2023-25 with a 3.22 ERA across 169 games.
Development: Porter Hodge had a brilliant rookie 2024 (1.88 ERA, 9 saves) but struggled in 2025 with injuries. Spring training will determine if he can reclaim a prominent bullpen role. The Cubs also have Jordan Wicks and Daniel Palencia as swing options between the rotation and bullpen.