The Chicago Cubs have made several notable moves this offseason, but there are still areas where they could improve to enhance their chances of contending in 2025. The biggest transaction so far was the trade to acquire star outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros, followed by shipping Cody Bellinger to the New York Yankees. Additionally, the Cubs signed Matthew Boyd to strengthen their rotation and most recently added closer Ryan Pressly from the Astros. While these moves are significant, the Cubs haven’t made many other high-profile roster changes and are hoping for internal improvement, though they might still make a few more moves.
One move that has been discussed as a possibility is signing star free agent third baseman Alex Bregman. Reports have indicated that the Cubs are very interested in Bregman, though concerns about the length of contract he desires, which may be longer than the Cubs are comfortable with, could complicate the situation. Michael Brakebill of FanSided examined the possibility of Bregman joining Chicago, calling it an “unrealistic” scenario for this offseason. Brakebill notes that while the Cubs could benefit from a proven third baseman with Bregman’s All-Star pedigree, the length of contract he’s seeking – likely five years – is more than what Chicago is willing to commit to at this point.
According to Brakebill, another team is likely to sign Bregman to the long-term deal he desires, with the Boston Red Sox and Detroit Tigers being the most probable landing spots. He adds that for Bregman to consider a shorter deal, which might allow him to re-enter free agency sooner, it would likely require a situation that still leaves the Cubs without addressing their pressing need for a closer. While Bregman would be a valuable addition to Chicago’s lineup, the Cubs may not be willing to meet the terms required for him to sign with them.
In 2024, Bregman played 145 games for Houston, hitting 26 home runs and driving in 75 RBIs, while posting a .260/.315/.453 slash line. His presence in the Cubs’ lineup would certainly provide an offensive boost, as they still need more power. However, other teams may be better positioned to offer him the kind of contract he’s looking for. As of now, it seems unlikely that Bregman will end up in Chicago, but the longer he remains available on the market, the more opportunities could arise for the Cubs to make a move.
