The Chicago Cubs aim to strengthen their roster this offseason but may not spend as aggressively as some of the big-market teams. The New York Yankees, New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Toronto Blue Jays are expected to make significant financial moves, which likely rules out the Cubs signing marquee players like Juan Soto, Pete Alonso, Willy Adames, Blake Snell, or Corbin Burnes. Instead, Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer predicts the Cubs might target a “third-tier” starting pitcher, possibly signing one to a three-year, $30 million deal.
Rymer highlighted Walker Buehler as an example, noting his dramatic turnaround during the Dodgers’ playoff run, where he pitched 10 scoreless innings and delivered the championship-winning pitch. Rymer suggests Buehler’s performance could even earn him a multi-year deal from a team seeking a high-upside starter.
Walker Buehler’s 2024 regular season was challenging; he recorded a 1-6 win-loss record with a 5.38 ERA and a -1.3 WAR over 16 appearances. Despite these struggles, he delivered in the postseason, pitching 10 scoreless innings in his last three outings and securing the championship for the Dodgers.
The Dodgers are reportedly pursuing top-tier pitchers like Roki Sasaki, Jack Flaherty, and Corbin Burnes, which might lead them to part ways with Buehler. This situation presents an opportunity for the Chicago Cubs, who are looking to strengthen their pitching staff. Signing Buehler could provide the Cubs with a high-upside starter at a potentially reasonable cost, aligning with their strategy to build a competitive team for the 2025 season.
