The Chicago Cubs are preparing for the 5th season since their 2016 World Series triumph. Fans are filled with anticipation. A series of strategic roster moves aim to return the team to championship contention. Let’s delve into the key transactions from November 1, 2024, to February 10, 2025. We will analyze their potential impact on the Cubs’ upcoming campaign.
The Kyle Tucker Acquisition
The Cubs pulled off a blockbuster trade for Kyle Tucker on December 14, 2024. They sent Isaac Paredes, Hayden Wesneski, and prospect Cam Smith to the Astros. This move sent a clear message to the league: The Cubs are serious about contending. Tucker is a two-time All-Star. He is one of the most consistent power-hitting outfielders in the game. He brings an elite combination of power, speed, and defense. This instantly upgrades the Cubs’ roster.
The 27-year-old left-handed slugger owns a career slash line of .281/.346/.512 and has averaged 30 homers and 25 stolen bases per season. His bat provides the balance the Cubs desperately need in the lineup. His Gold Glove-caliber defense in right field solidifies an outfield. The outfield had some question marks heading into the offseason.
Tucker is set to hit free agency after the 2025 season. Cubs fans are already hoping that Jed Hoyer and company can find a way to lock him up long-term. Players like Tucker don’t become available often. If he thrives in Wrigley Field, the front office should make every effort to keep him. They should ensure he’s around for years to come. The Cubs have been hesitant to hand out long-term contracts in recent years, but Tucker might just be the exception. A superstar in his prime, playing in front of 40,000 passionate fans at Wrigley every night? That’s a vision worth investing in.
For now, Cubs fans will savor every at-bat Tucker takes in 2025. Many will be watching closely. They hope this isn’t just a one-year rental. They wish for the beginning of a long and successful tenure on the North Side.
Bolstering the Bullpen with Ryan Pressly
The Cubs made a trade on January 28, 2025. They acquired veteran closer Ryan Pressly from the Houston Astros. In exchange, they traded minor league right-hander Juan Bello. Pressly, a two-time All-Star has been a model of consistency, recording a 2.85 ERA and a 0.95 WHIP over the past three seasons. Pressly provides the Cubs a top closer to anchor their bullpen in 2025.
Adding Depth with Eli Morgan
On November 20, 2024, the Cubs quietly acquired right-hander Eli Morgan. They received him from the Cleveland Guardians. In return, they exchanged minor-league prospect Alfonsin Rosario. Morgan, known for his deceptive changeup, has a career 3.97 ERA with 262 strikeouts over 253 innings. The Morgan trade has gone under the radar because of the Cubs’ other moves. By the end of the season, it will be one of the best moves they have made in the offseason. Morgan has the talent, he just needs to stay healthy and be consistent and the Cubs will have another valuable weapon in their Bullpen.
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Farewell to Cody Bellinger
The Cubs made a trade on December 18, 2024. They traded outfielder Cody Bellinger to the New York Yankees. In exchange, they received right-hander Cody Poteet. Bellinger, who experienced a resurgence with the Cubs, posted a .271/.339/.493 line with 25 home runs in 2024. While his departure leaves a void, the acquisition of Tucker aims to fill that gap, and Poteet provides pitching depth.
Strengthening the Rotation with Matthew Boyd
The Cubs signed left-hander Matthew Boyd to bolster the starting rotation on December 4, 2024. Boyd, known for his strikeout ability, recorded a 3.89 ERA with 9.6 K/9 in 2024. His veteran presence and experience in the American League Central bring valuable depth and leadership to a young pitching staff.
Catching Depth: Signing Carson Kelly
Addressing a need behind the plate, the Cubs signed catcher Carson Kelly. Kelly, recognized for his defensive skills and game-calling, also contributes offensively, with a career .231/.318/.405 line. He split the year between the Detroit Tigers and Texas Rangers. His addition provides a reliable partner for the pitching staff and mentorship for younger catchers. Kelly bolsters the defense up the middle. Players like Nico Hoerner, Dansby Swanson, and Pete Crow Armstrong also enhance this area. This combination strengthens the Cubs’ roster. This is a major asset for them this season.
Roster Reshuffling: DFA of Adbert Alzolay and Brennen Davis
In a surprising move on November 19, 2024, the Cubs designated right-hander Adbert Alzolay for assignment. They also designated outfielder Brennen Davis for assignment. This was done to make room for prospects Owen Caissie and Ben Cowles on the 40-man roster. Alzolay, a versatile pitcher, and Davis, once a top prospect, faced challenges with injuries and performance inconsistencies. This decision underscores the organization’s focus on nurturing emerging talent and making tough choices to improve the roster.
Bullpen Boost: Acquiring Ryan Brasier
The Cubs acquired right-hander Ryan Brasier from the Los Angeles Dodgers on February 4, 2025. The trade was made for a player to be named later. Brasier, with a career 3.58 ERA and a 1.20 WHIP, brings experience and depth to the bullpen. His postseason experience with the Boston Red Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers adds a veteran presence to high-leverage situations.
Fan Outlook
The Cubs’ offseason moves reflect a strategic blend of acquiring proven talent and making calculated decisions to enhance the roster. The addition of Kyle Tucker injects excitement into the lineup. The pitching acquisitions aim to stabilize the rotation. They also aim to stabilize the bullpen. Brasier, Morgan, and Pressly will all play key roles in the 2025 bullpen this year.
While parting ways with familiar faces like Bellinger, Alzolay, and former top prospect Davis brings mixed emotions. These decisions highlight the organization’s commitment to a competitive future. As the 2025 season approaches, Cubs fans have reason to be optimistic about the team’s direction. They see potential for a return to postseason contention.
The North Side is abuzz with anticipation. As the ivy turns green, the faithful at Wrigley Field eagerly await the next chapter in Cubs history.
