The Chicago Cubs' offseason strategy has been, well, let's just say it's as predictable as a slow roller to the pitcher's mound. But here's where it gets controversial: despite being one of the most profitable franchises in all of professional sports, the Cubs' front office, led by Jed Hoyer, has consistently played it safe, refusing to step outside their comfort zone. This approach has cost them dearly, with countless missed opportunities to land top free-agent talent. (https://cubbiescrib.com/3-free-agent-pitchers-the-cubs-must-prioritize-immediately-to-save-their-offseason)
For years, owner Tom Ricketts has kept the team's budget tighter than a curveball's break, forcing Hoyer to operate more like small-market teams rather than the big spenders of the league. And this is the part most people miss: the Cubs' financial might is their most significant advantage in the National League Central, yet they've chosen not to leverage it. Why? That's a question that grows more perplexing with each passing season.
With Tatsuya Imai off the board, it's time to shift focus to more realistic trade targets. Forget the high-profile names like MacKenzie Gore and Edward Cabrera; let's explore two pitchers who, while not flashy, could be solid additions to the Cubs' rotation.
First up, Nick Pivetta: The San Diego Padres struck gold when they signed Pivetta to a four-year, $55 million deal last offseason. The contract is heavily backloaded, meaning the Padres paid him just $1.75 million last year, which happened to coincide with his career-best season. At 32, Pivetta dominated the NL, finishing sixth in Cy Young voting with a 2.87 ERA over 181 2/3 innings. With San Diego's payroll situation in flux, trading Pivetta could be on the table (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6871791/2025/12/08/padres-trade-interest-nick-pivetta/). The cost shouldn't be prohibitive, especially since Pivetta can opt out after 2026 and 2027. If he replicates his 2023 performance (https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/savant-player/nick-pivetta-601713?stats=statcast-r-pitching-mlb), he'll likely test free agency again, seeking one last big payday before turning 35.
Next, Pablo Lopez: Lopez remains with the Minnesota Twins only because injuries sidelined him during their rebuild. Trading him now would be selling low, but if the return is right, the Twins might part ways with the right-hander and the $43.5 million remaining on his contract. Under team control through 2027 at $21.75 million annually, Lopez made just 14 starts last season due to injuries. However, when healthy, he posted impressive numbers: a 2.74 ERA, 3.19 FIP, 1.110 WHIP, and 156 ERA+ in 75 2/3 innings. At 29, Lopez has been a frequent name in trade rumors (https://cubbiescrib.com/cubs-rumors-pablo-lopez-could-be-fallback-option-after-jesus-luzardo-deal-fell-apart-01jfghfbfthb) and could be a solid fit for the Cubs. While he's not an ace, he could slot in as a reliable #2 starter. But let's be clear: if the Cubs want a true ace, they'll need to either open their wallet or part with top prospects—something Jed Hoyer has rarely done, except for last winter's Kyle Tucker trade.
Here's the million-dollar question: Are the Cubs willing to take a risk and make a bold move, or will they continue to play it safe? What do you think? Should they go all-in on a big name, or are Pivetta and Lopez the kind of practical additions this team needs? Let us know in the comments!
