Cubs Make Strategic Moves Ahead of Offseason Spending Spree
The Chicago Cubs navigated the recent tender deadline with clarity and purpose, making two straightforward decisions by extending contracts to pitchers Justin Steele and Javier Assad. Both players, eligible for arbitration, needed to receive tender offers to avoid hitting the free-agent market. However, the situation surrounding Steele remains complex; he is expected to miss a significant portion of the upcoming season due to Tommy John surgery.
Decisions on Arbitration-Eligible Players
In a contrasting move, the Cubs opted not to extend offers to catcher Reese McGuire and pitcher Eli Morgan. While this decision may appear minor, it reflects a focus on financial strategy. According to MLB Trade Rumors’ arbitration projections, forgoing these contracts saves the Cubs approximately $3 million.
These recent moves help illuminate the Cubs’ financial landscape for the 2026 season, as they prepare for an aggressive offseason.
2026 Payroll Projections
With Steele projected to earn around $6.55 million and Assad at $1.9 million, their tendered contracts signify the team’s intent to retain them. Although these figures are not finalized, they play a crucial role in shaping the Cubs’ financial commitments for 2026. Combining these projected salaries with existing contracts, the Cubs have nearly $150 million dedicated to 11 players for that season.
Among these commitments is pitcher Shota Imanaga, who recently accepted a $22 million qualifying offer, making him the second-highest paid player on the roster, behind shortstop Dansby Swanson, who commands $28 million. The payroll list further includes outfielder Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ at $19 million each, pitcher Jameson Taillon at $18 million, pitcher Matthew Boyd at $17 million, and infielder Nico Hoerner at $12 million.
Young Talent and Budget Flexibility
Alongside Steele and Assad, the Cubs are expecting contributions from players who will earn significantly less than $10 million, including pitcher Colin Rea at $5.5 million and catcher Carson Kelly at $5 million. The remainder of their budget will largely consist of pre-arbitration players—young talents who have yet to reach the service time necessary for arbitration eligibility. Notable names in this group include third baseman Matt Shaw, closer Daniel Palencia, outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, and first baseman Michael Busch, all of whom are set to earn the league minimum, which is less than $1 million.
As it stands, the projected active payroll, factoring in both arbitration-eligible and pre-arbitration players, hovers around $168.9 million, according to Spotrac.
Potential for Offseason Moves
With these financial figures in mind, the Cubs find themselves in a favorable position heading into the offseason. Their projected payroll for 2027 is significantly lower, estimated at just $58 million based on veteran contracts. This discrepancy provides the Cubs with the financial flexibility to be aggressive in the upcoming free agency period.
As a major market team, the Cubs have previously faced criticism for not fully capitalizing on their resources. However, after reaching the NL Division Series and with considerable space between their current payroll floor and the competitive balance tax threshold, the team is poised to make impactful acquisitions.
Looking Ahead
The current offseason presents an opportunity for the Cubs to bolster their roster as they aim for a championship. With the right moves, Chicago could transform its recent success into sustained excellence. As the offseason unfolds, the baseball world will be watching closely to see how the Cubs leverage their newfound clarity in payroll to strengthen their championship aspirations.
