Overview
- The Athletic, as relayed by Newsweek, reports the Cubs are prepared to sign players tied to qualifying offers, strengthening the case for pursuing Dylan Cease.
- Team officials have identified pitching as the offseason focus after Shota Imanaga reached free agency and postseason rotation depth was exposed.
- Multiple predictions peg Cease to Chicago on a projected six-year, $187 million contract, with his strikeout profile highlighted despite a higher 2025 ERA.
- Bleacher Report forecasts a four-year, $114 million deal for Framber Valdez with the Cubs, and CBS Sports has also linked the left-hander to Chicago.
- Analysts note Chicago’s financial capacity to chase top starters, while Scott Boras has touted Cease’s Wrigley Field track record; no agreements are confirmed.