Chicago Cubs fans have been on a rollercoaster since their 2016 World Series win, often feeling like the team was just a piece or two away from greatness. With offseasons marked by cautious spending, the Cubs frequently fell short of their potential. Even last year, acquiring superstar Kyle Tucker felt like a temporary fix, leaving fans anxious about his future beyond 2025.
The Cubs’ strategy relied heavily on players outperforming expectations, which led to missing the playoffs in 2023 and 2024 despite glimpses of promise. In 2025, the absence of another quality starter or a bat like Alex Bregman might have made the difference between an NLDS exit and a deeper postseason journey. Missing out on Bregman was a particularly tough pill to swallow for the organization.
But as Opening Day 2026 approaches, there's a renewed sense of optimism. This offseason, the Cubs silenced critics by making bold moves, raising expectations to new heights.
They secured Bregman with a record-setting five-year, $175 million deal and traded for Edward Cabrera, bringing in a pitcher with electrifying potential despite some injury concerns. The bullpen received a major overhaul, with $30 million invested to solidify what was once a patchwork area.
Even with Tyler Austin sidelined, the bench looks stronger. The message is clear: winning the division isn’t enough; it’s time to chase a championship.
Bregman has already made his presence felt, bonding with minor leaguers and connecting with young star Pete Crow-Armstrong. Cabrera has impressed in camp with his velocity and dynamic pitching.
Bregman’s recent exhibition game performances, including two homers for Team USA, have given fans a taste of his potential impact. These players are not just boosting postseason hopes; they’re fully committed to the Cubs' vision.
After a near miss in 2025, the Cubs needed an assertive offseason, and they delivered. The previous year’s 92-win season deserved this level of investment.
The 2024 campaign was disappointing, especially after 2023 showed promise and the hiring of Craig Counsell signaled a win-now mentality. The pressure of 2025 turned into a confidence boost, proving the team, led by veterans like Nico Hoerner and Ian Happ and young talents like PCA and Michael Busch, could achieve great things.
The Cubs have completed the hard part. The rebuild that began with the 2021 sell-off has reached its conclusion. Although some opportunities were missed along the way, the front office’s decisive actions this offseason demonstrate a strong belief in the team and a clear message to fans: this season is worth getting excited about.
As Opening Day signals a new era, the Cubs have a mostly locked-in core, with PCA emerging as a new team leader. The front office has answered the pressing question: "if not now, then when?" There will undoubtedly be challenges and rough patches in the long season ahead, but the current vibe is positive, and the Cubs have shown they’re committed to making this team the best it can be.