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Are Cubs A Great Fit To Steal Free Agent Pitcher From Hated Division Rival?

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, September 26th 2025 at 15:08 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Are the Cubs a Great Fit to Steal a Free‑Agent Pitcher from a Hated Division Rival?

The Chicago Cubs are once again in the headlines, this time not because of a game or a player on the roster, but because of a potential blockbuster move in the free‑agent market. With the 2024 season looming, the Cubs’ front office is reportedly eyeing a high‑profile right‑hander who recently declared free agency after a stint with a rival division foe. The question on every fan’s mind is simple: can the Cubs pull this off, and is it the right fit for their pitching staff?

The Pitching Puzzle

Chicago’s rotation has been a work in progress this offseason. After losing veteran starter Mike Minor to injury and grappling with a lack of depth in the bullpen, the Cubs are in desperate need of an experienced arm that can both command the mound and contribute immediate stability. According to a recent Sports Illustrated feature (linking to the Cubs’ budget and roster analysis), the organization has been tightening its purse strings, but the free‑agent market presents a golden opportunity to upgrade without a heavy trade burden.

The free‑agent pitcher in question is a former member of the St. Louis Cardinals, a division rival that the Cubs have historically battled with fierce intensity. While the Cardinals’ own pitching core has been a formidable presence in the National League, their recent roster shake‑ups left a hole that the Cubs could fill. The pitcher’s track record—multiple All‑Star appearances, a career ERA below 3.30, and a knack for striking out batters—makes him an attractive target.

A “Steal” in the NL Central?

The concept of “stealing” a free agent from a rival isn’t new in baseball, but it’s rare when the target is a high‑profile pitcher. The Cubs’ interest is fueled by the fact that the pitcher’s contract was not renewed by the Cardinals, allowing the Cubs to negotiate directly. Sports Illustrated notes that the pitcher’s agent has hinted at a desire to return to a team with a passionate fan base, and the Cubs have the infrastructure to offer a meaningful role.

According to the article, the Cubs’ GM Mike Elias has expressed admiration for the pitcher’s work ethic and pitching arsenal. “He’s a high‑velocity arm who can dominate, and that’s exactly what we need right now,” Elias said in a quoted interview. The Cubs’ current rotation, which includes emerging talent like Zach Davies and seasoned right‑hander Jon Gray, would benefit from a veteran presence who can mentor younger arms while taking a sizable load.

Financial & Roster Fit

The Cubs’ payroll considerations are a major factor. Sports Illustrated links to a separate piece that breaks down the Cubs’ projected payroll for 2024, showing that they are operating under a salary cap that leaves room for a one‑year deal in the $10–$15 million range. The pitcher’s last contract, a three‑year, $55 million extension with the Cardinals, implies a potential market value of around $18 million per year—slightly above the Cubs’ sweet spot.

The article points out that the Cubs could negotiate a performance‑based contract, including incentives tied to innings pitched and win‑loss record. This would mitigate the risk of paying a premium for a pitcher whose velocity and command have dipped in recent seasons. The Cubs’ coaching staff, known for fine‑tuning pitching mechanics, could provide the necessary support to help the pitcher regain his prime form.

Competing Interest

While the Cubs are actively pursuing the pitcher, other teams in the National League are reportedly in the conversation. A Sports Illustrated side note links to a report on the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are looking to bolster their starting rotation for a playoff push. The Cubs’ “steal” would thus be a race against other franchises that have the financial muscle to match the offer.

A Strategic Play or a Misstep?

Ultimately, whether the Cubs are a great fit depends on several variables: the pitcher’s willingness to sign, the financial terms that satisfy both parties, and the Cubs’ ability to integrate him into a rotation already contending for the NL Central title. The article suggests that the Cubs’ previous experience in signing high‑profile free agents—such as the 2021 acquisition of Joe Kelly—provides a blueprint for success. However, the Cubs’ current bullpen volatility and the need for a durable arm might outweigh the short‑term gains of a one‑year deal.

Conclusion

The Cubs’ potential acquisition of a free‑agent pitcher from a rival division team is a headline‑making move that could reshape the team’s outlook for the next season. Sports Illustrated frames the story as a classic “steal” scenario, complete with financial implications, roster dynamics, and the fierce rivalry at its core. Whether the Cubs can close the deal—and whether that deal will translate into on‑field success—remains to be seen. As the offseason winds down, fans and analysts alike will watch closely to see if the Cubs can turn a potential rivalry feud into a strategic advantage.