CHICAGO — The Chicago Cubs are concentrating on enhancing their relief pitching and bench depth as they continue their offseason preparations, according to the team’s president of baseball operations, Jed Hoyer.
During the initial day of the annual fan convention, Hoyer stated that the Cubs’ starting third baseman for opening day is likely already within the organization. He also mentioned that the savings from the Cody Bellinger trade will be reinvested into the roster. Additionally, he provided an update on infielder Nico Hoerner, indicating that he is progressing well in his recovery from surgery on his flexor tendon.
In the past two seasons, the Cubs have finished second in the National League Central, posting an 83-79 record each time, but they have not reached the postseason since 2020. The bullpen proved to be a significant concern last season, as the relievers recorded 35 losses, which was the fourth highest in the league, along with 26 blown saves and an ERA of 3.81.
“Overall, we’re pursuing a variety of relievers,” Hoyer remarked. “We have numerous options on the table and it sometimes feels like a staring contest with all these players. Nonetheless, there is a lot of talent out there, and we intend to enhance our roster as effectively as possible.”
In an effort to strengthen their lineup, the Cubs acquired outfielder Kyle Tucker in a trade with Houston on December 13. They have also added pitchers Matthew Boyd, Eli Morgan, and Colin Rea to their roster since the conclusion of the last season.
The deal for Tucker involved parting ways with Isaac Paredes, and top prospect Matt Shaw is viewed as a leading candidate for the third-base position moving forward.
As Hoyer enters the final year of his contract with the Cubs, he refrained from discussing any potential conversations with team chairman Tom Ricketts regarding his future with the franchise. “I understand that it’s a subject of interest, but it’s not something that I’m worried about,” Hoyer expressed. “I’m looking forward to this season.”
Ahead of the convention, the Cubs and Tucker settled on a one-year, $16.5 million contract, successfully sidestepping what could have been a challenging arbitration hearing. Celebrating his 28th birthday on the same day, the assembled fans at the convention sang to Tucker. He will be eligible for free agency following the 2025 season.
When asked if there had been any discussions about a longer contract in conjunction with finalizing his one-year deal, Tucker replied, “No, not yet.” He added, “We’ll see where that leads a little later. Right now, we just worked through the arbitration process and we’ll evaluate the situation moving forward.”
