Chicago Cubs set to go on a spending spree this off season

The Chicago Cubs are poised to turn up the heat this offseason, setting the stage for what could be a transformative winter. After trading for All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Astros, then shipping Cody Bellinger and his hefty $27.5 million contract to the Yankees, the Cubs have made it clear they’re playing to win. Still, with a payroll now sitting over $50 million lighter than last season, the team finds itself with ample financial room to maneuver—and a National League Central crown to chase.

Finishing 10 games behind the Milwaukee Brewers last year didn’t sit well with a team that sees itself as a contender. This offseason, they’re not just tinkering around the edges; they’re looking to make a statement. According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, the Cubs’ moves so far signal they’re far from finished. “It’s hard to imagine they won’t do something else to try finally toppling Milwaukee in the NL Central,” Nightengale writes.

The Cubs know they need more than just incremental improvements. While Kyle Tucker strengthens their outfield, glaring holes remain. Third base stands out as a position in dire need of reinforcement, and their lack of power—ranking near the bottom of the league with only 170 home runs in 2024—screams for a solution. The team is linked with former Astros third baseman Alex Bregman, a name that not only fits their needs but could provide the offensive and defensive upgrade the Cubs are craving.

Bregman, a two-time All-Star and postseason stalwart, is the type of player who can elevate an entire lineup. With a reputation for clutch hitting and steady defense, he offers the Cubs a chance to solve two problems with one swing of the pen. Though he comes with a hefty price tag, the Cubs’ payroll flexibility makes such a move feasible. Adding Bregman would signal to fans—and rivals—that the Cubs mean business.

Relievers on the Radar

The Cubs also need to shore up their bullpen, a critical factor for teams with postseason ambitions. This year’s free-agent market for relievers has been sluggish, leaving several high-caliber arms still available. With their financial leeway, the Cubs can afford to target proven late-inning options, providing manager David Ross with the depth he’ll need to compete with the Brewers and Cardinals down the stretch.

A New Era for Chicago?

This isn’t just about catching Milwaukee. It’s about reclaiming their place as perennial contenders. Since their unforgettable World Series win in 2016, the Cubs have struggled to sustain their success. A mix of aggressive trades, strategic free-agent signings, and internal development could pave the way for a resurgence. Tucker and Bregman could anchor a new core, while younger talents like Nico Hoerner and Seiya Suzuki add energy and versatility to the roster.

The next few weeks will be crucial. Whether it’s a blockbuster signing, a trade for another star, or bolstering their depth, the Cubs have the resources and the motivation to make a splash. The NL Central is theirs to take—if they’re willing to seize it.

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