Chicago Cubs Shake Up Their Roster – Is This the Year They Go All In?
The Chicago Cubs have long been defined by their past—first by a 108-year championship drought, then by the expectations that followed their historic 2016 World Series win. But as they head into the 2025 season, one question looms large: Are they truly built to contend, or are they simply treading water?
This offseason saw the Cubs make strategic yet calculated moves, adding firepower to their roster while working within tight financial constraints. Tuesday’s signing of veteran slugger Justin Turner was the latest piece of the puzzle, joining an already revamped lineup that includes superstar outfielder Kyle Tucker, relievers Ryan Pressly and Ryan Brasier, starting pitcher Matthew Boyd, and catcher Carson Kelly.
Cubs’ Offseason Moves – Smart Spending or Playing It Safe?
President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer spoke candidly about the team’s approach, emphasizing the balance between strengthening the roster and staying within budget limits.
“We took it as a real challenge,” Hoyer said during a media event in Arizona. “We knew we had certain constraints. How do we work within those constraints and continue to get better at the same time? Only time will tell if we were successful. But I feel good about what we accomplished this offseason.”
Turner, 40, brings a wealth of experience and leadership, agreeing to a one-year, $6 million deal with $2.5 million in performance bonuses. He’s expected to serve as the Cubs’ primary designated hitter and provide depth at first base, backing up Michael Busch.
While the Cubs were linked to Alex Bregman earlier in free agency, they ultimately pivoted to Turner, hoping his postseason pedigree and steady bat will bring an edge to the lineup.
Are the Cubs Keeping Up With the NL’s Elite?
Despite their spending, the Cubs aren’t in the same financial stratosphere as the Dodgers or Mets, both of whom boast payrolls surpassing $300 million. Even within their own division, the Cubs trail behind teams like the Braves, Phillies, and Giants in overall spending.
At present, the Cubs’ payroll sits around $217 million, according to FanGraphs, with ownership signaling that they could push closer to the $241 million luxury tax threshold as the season progresses.
“Wins are at a premium right now in the National League,” Hoyer said. “It’s not like we’re holding back a war chest for the deadline. You want to leave a little flexibility, but every win matters.”
The Cubs’ Window of Opportunity Might Be Smaller Than It Seems
While the Cubs have bolstered their roster, this season could be pivotal for their long-term outlook. Kyle Tucker, a premier talent, is set to test free agency after this season, making him a potential one-year rental. Hoyer, in the final year of his contract, faces mounting pressure to deliver results. And newly appointed manager Craig Counsell—now the highest-paid skipper in the game—will need to prove that he can take this team to the next level.
The Cubs still have a strong farm system, which means they could make aggressive moves at the trade deadline if they find themselves in contention.
“The Padres did as good a job as anyone last year,” Hoyer said, referencing San Diego’s ability to make key trades throughout the season. “We can hopefully continue to evolve as the year goes on, based on needs. We should have the resources to do that. I don’t think it’s ever like: ‘Pencils down, we’re done.’ You’re always trying to make moves.”
Will the Cubs’ Strategy Pay Off?
The players certainly believe so.
“Jed’s had an awesome offseason,” shortstop Dansby Swanson said. “I’m looking forward to seeing it come to life this year.”
“We’ve made big gains,” added outfielder Ian Happ. “We have a chance to do some special things.”
With Opening Day in Japan just weeks away, the Cubs have their eyes set on proving they belong among baseball’s elite. But will their calculated spending and roster tweaks be enough to take them from an 83-win team to a true contender?
One thing is for sure—there’s no turning back now. The time to win is now, and the Cubs can’t afford to waste their opportunity.
What do you think? Have the Cubs done enough this offseason? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
