Chicago Cubs’ Offseason Strategy Focuses on Pitching and Outfield Solutions

The Chicago Cubs face critical decisions this offseason regarding their pitching needs and outfield positions. With Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ, their corner outfielders, entering free agency, the Cubs must determine their path forward. Suzuki, one of the market’s top hitters, is likely to receive a substantial contract. The Cubs expect him to reject their qualifying offer, which will influence their future moves.

The team could consider utilizing players like Pedro Ramírez, Matt Shaw, and Kevin Alcántara in the outfield. Kevin Alcántara, now out of minor-league options, might be especially important. Incorporating a veteran player into this mix is possible, similar to what they did with Michael Conforto and Tyrone Taylor in the past season. If both Happ and Suzuki leave, the Cubs might seek another established bat.

“All the scenarios are on the table,” said general manager Carter Hawkins at the MLB GM meetings. “It would definitely make our lineup better on paper to go get a proven guy like Seiya.”

Hawkins emphasized the potential benefits and trade-offs the team faces. He mentioned Pedro Ramírez as someone likely to gain more regular playing time. According to Hawkins, Ramírez’s athleticism and work ethic make him a viable outfield candidate.

Regarding the Cubs’ catching situation, Carson Kelly and Miguel Amaya have been a top pair for the last two seasons. With Kelly entering free agency, the Cubs might need other roster investments. The team is considering internal options but must address the void left by Kelly’s potential departure.

“We’re going to figure out where we’re going to allocate our resources over the course of the next few weeks,” Hawkins said.

The Cubs look forward to prospect Owen Ayers’ progress. Ayers, aged 25, moved from High A to Triple A in one season and showed offensive potential with 25 home runs in 125 games. He will compete for a roster spot but might need more experience before fully stepping into a major-league role. Hawkins acknowledged this risk but emphasized the need for calculated risks to achieve their goals.

Miguel Amaya, despite previous injuries, is expected to have more playing time. Hawkins praised Amaya’s defensive abilities and anticipates an improved offensive performance in 2027.

The Cubs continue to assess their pitching options after the GM meetings. A possible reunion with free-agent starters, such as Clay Holmes and David Peterson, remains on the table. These pitchers could complement the Cubs’ elite defense effectively.

“There’s not any player that we just had under any circumstance wouldn’t want to have come back,” Hawkins stated.