Full Breakdown
Cubs Seek to Strengthen Starting Rotation Amid Competitive Market
11/28/2025, 4:50:23 PM
Current State of the Cubs' Pitching Prospects
The Chicago Cubs are actively seeking to enhance their starting pitching rotation as they enter the offseason. General manager Carter Hawkins acknowledged the team's previous misjudgment regarding right-handed pitcher Cade Horton during the 2022 MLB Draft, where he was initially viewed as a less favorable option due to his recovery from Tommy John surgery. However, Horton has since emerged as a standout performer, boasting a 1.03 ERA in the second half of the season, highlighting the need for the Cubs to capitalize on such talent. Despite this success, the Cubs' farm system lacks depth in pitching, with only three of their top 15 prospects being pitchers: Jackson Wiggins, Brandon Birdsell, and Kaleb Wing. This scarcity emphasizes the urgency for the Cubs to pursue additional starting pitchers.
Recent Moves and Market Dynamics
Last offseason, the Cubs signed left-hander Matthew Boyd to a two-year contract but continued to explore options to bolster their rotation. The team made significant offensive moves, including acquiring right fielder Kyle Tucker, while also attempting to trade for Alex Bregman. However, injuries to key pitchers, including Justin Steele's season-ending elbow surgery, exacerbated the need for frontline starting pitching. The Cubs' only notable addition was right-hander Michael Soroka, who was viewed more as a swingman before suffering a shoulder injury.
As the offseason progresses, the Cubs are focusing on improving their pitching staff. President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer expressed intentions to explore both trades and free agency, indicating a proactive approach to filling the rotation. The Cubs aim to capitalize on the evolving starting-pitching market, which has seen teams reassess their strategies following the trade deadline.
Competitive Landscape and Recent Transactions
The starting-pitching market is becoming increasingly competitive, with teams like the Boston Red Sox also looking to enhance their rotations. Recently, the Cubs traded for veteran right-hander Sonny Gray, sending right-hander Richard Fitts and left-hander Brandon Clarke, their No. 5 prospect, to the St. Louis Cardinals. This move reflects the Cubs' commitment to strengthening their pitching staff.
In parallel, the Toronto Blue Jays made headlines by reportedly signing right-hander Dylan Cease to a seven-year contract worth $210 million. These developments signal a rapidly changing market, placing pressure on the Cubs to act swiftly in their pursuit of starting pitching.
Official Statements & Responses
Carter Hawkins remarked on the importance of elite performances in competitive environments, stating, “Cade is an example of someone who had elite performance in an elite competitive environment that continued to perform at an elite level once he got to pro ball.” Meanwhile, Jed Hoyer emphasized the Cubs' strategy, saying, “I expect to explore trades... both at the top of the market, but then also looking at minor-league free agency.”
What's Next for the Cubs?
As the Cubs navigate the offseason, their focus remains on acquiring starting pitching to address the gaps in their rotation. With the market heating up, the organization must act decisively to secure the talent necessary for a competitive 2026 season.
