The Chicago Cubs have made a significant move in their pursuit of strengthening their roster for the upcoming 2025 MLB season. After the Los Angeles Dodgers’ acquisition of left-handed reliever Tanner Scott, a $42 million star free agent has entered the spotlight as a potential target for the Cubs. With the Cubs looking to bolster both their pitching and hitting, this high-profile free agent could be the game-changer that the team needs to take the next step toward contending in the National League.
Dodgers Make a Splash with Tanner Scott
The Los Angeles Dodgers, always active in the free-agent market, recently signed reliever Tanner Scott to a three-year, $42 million deal. This signing came as part of their ongoing efforts to strengthen their bullpen and maintain their dominance in the National League West. Scott, who had an impressive 2024 season, is a left-handed pitcher known for his high strikeout rate and ability to generate swings and misses.
Scott’s addition to the Dodgers’ bullpen is a significant one, as he brings both experience and a dominant fastball that complements their already formidable pitching staff. The Dodgers have long been known for their ability to develop pitchers, and Scott will be another piece in their puzzle to secure another postseason appearance.
Cubs Enter the Picture: The $42 Million Star Free Agent
As the Dodgers made their move to secure Scott, the Cubs shifted their focus to another high-caliber free agent. This star player, whose value on the open market has been estimated at around $42 million, has the potential to reshape the Cubs’ lineup in 2025 and beyond. While the exact identity of this player remains speculative, early reports indicate that the Cubs are actively pursuing a star who could be a key contributor on both offense and defense.
This free agent is rumored to be a versatile player, able to impact the game in multiple ways. Whether it be through power hitting, elite fielding, or leadership on and off the field, this player offers a wealth of potential that could make the Cubs a legitimate contender in the National League. With the team already boasting a solid core of talent, this player could help provide the final piece needed to build a championship-caliber team.
Cubs’ Recent Moves and Their Roster Needs
The Chicago Cubs have been active in the offseason, making several key moves to bolster their roster. In 2024, the Cubs finished second in the National League Central, but they fell short in the postseason, highlighting the need for improvements across various facets of their team.
One of the areas the Cubs have been focusing on is their bullpen. Despite having some talented arms, the bullpen was inconsistent in 2024, leading to a need for more reliable late-inning options. Adding a veteran presence or a high-upside arm to the bullpen is something the Cubs have likely prioritized.
However, their most pressing need may be in the lineup. While the Cubs have several standout players, including star third baseman Kris Bryant and emerging talent like shortstop Nico Hoerner, their offense has occasionally been anemic, especially in key moments during the regular season and playoffs. With the Cubs’ core largely intact, adding a superstar hitter could be the missing ingredient in helping the team reach the next level.
This is where the $42 million star free agent comes into play. With the Cubs looking to balance their roster between strong pitching and consistent hitting, this player’s ability to contribute across multiple facets of the game could fill a significant gap.
Potential Fit for the Cubs: A Versatile Star
The star free agent being linked to the Cubs is reportedly a player who can play multiple positions and provide valuable versatility to the team. Whether as an outfielder, infielder, or even a designated hitter, this player could slot seamlessly into various roles depending on the team’s needs throughout the season.
Versatility is an increasingly valuable trait in Major League Baseball, especially given the long 162-game season. Teams that can weather injuries and maintain a high level of performance despite roster changes are often the most successful. For the Cubs, this versatility could prove invaluable, allowing the front office to be more creative with lineups and rotations.
Additionally, this star player has been known for his ability to perform in high-leverage situations. Whether it’s a late-inning home run or a game-changing defensive play, this player can be counted on to rise to the occasion when the stakes are highest. This type of player is exactly what the Cubs need to get over the hump and into deeper playoff runs in the future.
Financial Implications for the Cubs
The Cubs’ pursuit of this $42 million star free agent comes at a time when they are in the midst of balancing their payroll and staying competitive in the long run. The signing of a player for such a significant amount of money will have financial ramifications, but it’s clear that the Cubs are willing to make this investment if they believe it will pay off in the form of postseason success.
While the Cubs are currently working within a mid-range payroll, they have shown a willingness to spend on key pieces when necessary. The signing of this player could signal that the Cubs are ready to go all-in on their pursuit of a championship.
The Cubs’ front office has been focusing on building a sustainable winner, and a significant free-agent addition could be the final push needed to make this team a perennial contender. If this player can help the Cubs make a deep run in the postseason, the financial outlay will be well worth it, especially in an era where the value of postseason appearances has become more important than ever before.
Looking Ahead: The Cubs’ Competitive Window
The Cubs are in an interesting position as they look ahead to the next several seasons. With a solid core in place, including players like Bryant, Hoerner, and pitcher Marcus Stroman, the Cubs are entering a competitive window where they have the potential to contend for a World Series title. However, to make that leap from a playoff team to a championship contender, they will need to surround their current core with complementary talent.
The signing of a star player could be the final piece that propels the Cubs to the next level. With the right mix of pitching, defense, and hitting, the Cubs could position themselves as one of the top teams in the National League. Adding a high-impact player to the roster will only increase their chances of making a deep playoff run in the coming years.
The NL Central Race: Cubs vs. Brewers, Reds, and Cardinals
The NL Central remains one of the most competitive divisions in Major League Baseball, with teams like the Milwaukee Brewers, Cincinnati Reds, and St. Louis Cardinals constantly in the mix for playoff spots. While the Cubs have made strides in recent years, they will need to continue improving to keep pace with these division rivals.
By signing a marquee free agent, the Cubs can solidify their position as a top contender in the division. With the Brewers looking to defend their title, the Reds continuing their rebuild, and the Cardinals always dangerous, the Cubs will need to be at their best if they hope to take control of the division.
