Thirty-seven hours after the Chicago Cubs’ season ended with a wild-card series sweep in San Diego, their president of baseball operations, Jed Hoyer, reflected on the tumultuous year. As players and coaches participated in exit interviews, one emotion was prevalent: disappointment.
“This season was unlike any other I’ve experienced in 25 years,” Hoyer stated. “We encountered several periods that seemed dire. In mid-April, it felt as though every reliever was injured. By late June, we were scrambling to fill our rotation. We survived those challenges remarkably well. At other times, there were long stretches when I thought we looked like one of the best teams in baseball.”
The Cubs missed having home playoff games by underperforming in September, especially in the final week. Hoyer noted that the Cubs must enhance their roster, particularly since most of their core players would return for the next season, except for impending free agents Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki.
1. Improving the Bullpen
The bullpen requires enhancements from both internal and external sources. In 2025, the Cubs’ bullpen played a crucial role in their playoff run. However, in 2026, top offseason acquisitions were mostly absent. Hunter Harvey made only four appearances early in the season before getting injured, and Phil Maton experienced recurring knee issues, culminating in surgery. Their combined statistics resulted in a negative impact with a 6.25 ERA.
“I did a poor job in the bullpen this year,” Hoyer admitted. “It’s an area we need to improve this offseason.”
Maton will remain under contract, joining other returning pitchers like Ryan Zeferjahn, Daniel Palencia, Ryan Rolison, and possibly Jacob Webb if the Cubs opt for his club option. This forms a strong base, but the Cubs need more reliable relievers in 2027.
“Our approach to the bullpen this year mirrored that of 2025, and it didn’t work out. Enhancing our pitching quality to match our position players is vital,” Hoyer emphasized.
Developing effective relievers internally presents a challenge that the organization must overcome.
2. Strengthening the Rotation
The Cubs face significant issues concerning their rotation. With trade acquisitions Clay Holmes, David Peterson, and Kevin Gausman becoming free agents and uncertainty around Matthew Boyd’s option and injuries to Ben Brown, Cade Horton, and Justin Steele, decisions are necessary.
“We allowed too many home runs. Evaluating everything from scouting to development is crucial,” Hoyer remarked. “Catching homers isn’t something possible.”
Edward Cabrera also had an underwhelming season, raising concerns about his future contributions.
“We need to assess what prevented him from excelling and address those factors,” Hoyer stated. “Despite his issues, Cabrera possesses the swing-and-miss capabilities we seek.”
3. Preparing for a Potential Lockout
With the collective bargaining agreement expiring soon, the Cubs might need to act decisively in November. In a similar situation previously, they signed Marcus Stroman before the CBA expired.
“We anticipate a busy period in November ahead of an expected lockout and must remain proactive,” Hoyer explained. “Creativity is essential as we fill various roster gaps.”