"The Cubs have very few players under contract past 2026 and 2027, which means the next few winters could be quite busy. Just a few years ago, the team had one of the best farm systems in baseball. Those players are now reaching the major leagues, which could prove to be pivotal as Jed Hoyer looks to construct the next great Cubs team."
"Free agency is a nasty business, with agents wanting to get the most money for their clients, and rightfully so. When a player hits the open market, all 30 teams are able to negotiate for their services. Negotiating a contract before a player reaches free agency makes it much more likely that they return to their current team, unless they are a Scott Boras client, of course."
"Nico Hoerner is entering the final year of his contract, which was an extension signed before he would have become a free agent. The Cubs bought out some of his arbitration years, along with a year of free agency. His name has entered trade rumors this winter due to his uncertain contract status, although no deal appears imminent. He won his second Gold Glove Award in 2024, continuing to establish himself as one of the best defensive players in the sport."
The Cubs enter a period with very few players under contract past 2026–2027, creating upcoming winter decision points. A once-elite farm system is now supplying major-league talent that could form a new core. Extending young players can keep payroll controlled but carries risk for both team and player. Free agency exposes players to all 30 teams and aggressive agent negotiating, making pre-free-agency extensions a more reliable retention method except for certain high-profile agents. Nico Hoerner faces contract uncertainty entering his final year, has trade-season mention, and continues to provide elite defense and clutch hitting.
Read at Cubsinsider
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