The Chicago Cubs appear far from finished with their offseason moves despite securing Alex Bregman in a high-profile signing. The team has gone further than in recent years, pushing right up against the competitive balance tax (CBT) threshold to bring Bregman aboard. Although speculation has swirled about a possible trade involving Nico Hoerner to free up payroll space, Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer has neither confirmed nor denied such rumors, maintaining some uncertainty heading into the new season.
Jed Hoyer Suggests More Moves Are Expected After Key Additions
While confirming that the Cubs have completed some major offseason tasks, Hoyer made it clear the roster overhaul isn’t finished.
“By no means are we done with the offseason but we did check some of the big boxes,”
he told reporters, noting intentions to bolster team depth even further. This statement suggests additional roster adjustments are possible as the Cubs prepare for the 2026 season.
Potential Trades Could Reshape Cubs’ Roster but Are Not Guaranteed
There is ongoing conversation around the future of both Nico Hoerner and Matt Shaw, with speculation that either could be moved to create budget flexibility. However, these trades are not necessities, especially if the Cubs maintain a contender mindset. If the team competes in 2026, exceeding the luxury tax might be inevitable, meaning offloading players chiefly to avoid the tax should not drive decision-making.
Although Shaw lost his starting role, he remains a valuable utility infielder and could become the starting second baseman if Hoerner departs via free agency. His versatility provides the Cubs with a flexible option on the bench or the infield.
Cubs Eye Additional Depth Positions, Including a Veteran Outfielder
The Cubs are also seeking reliable depth in the outfield, particularly a seasoned fourth outfielder. Kevin Alcantara currently appears favored for this role, but the newly claimed Justin Dean is emerging as a potential challenger. Targeting a right-handed hitting veteran who can cover center and right field aligns with the team’s strategic needs, enhancing both offensive and defensive options.
Bullpen Revamp Continues with Focus on Closer Role
Despite investing nearly $30 million reconstructing their bullpen, the Cubs may still pursue an experienced closer. Daniel Palencia and Hunter Harvey stand as probable candidates to start the season in the closer’s role, but each carries uncertainties. Palencia showed promise in 2025 but has yet to prove himself over a full campaign as closer, while Harvey’s injury history raises durability concerns.
Securing a dependable closer remains a top priority for the Cubs, particularly as the trade deadline approaches, contingent on the team contending. For the moment, with no trades imminent, Hoyer’s focus is likely to remain on smaller roster enhancements rather than major moves, a position Cubs fans are unlikely to criticize given the significant addition of Bregman.
ON REPEAT. pic.twitter.com/7ljFFcvYgd
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) January 15, 2026
Jed Hoyer on the Cubs: “By no means are we done with the offseason but we did check some of the big boxes."
He mentioned adding depth— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) January 15, 2026
