"The best way to address those needs is by trading for an impact starter and signing a big bat, but that would mean the Cubs have to step way out of their comfort zone. A trade for anyone who can slot into the top half of the rotation requires the stones to deal from an already weak farm system, and just about any difference-making hitter is represented by Scott Boras."
"Imai's structure was certainly less amenable due to the early opt-out, especially for a Cubs team that will already be losing Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, and possibly Matthew Boyd to free agency after the coming season. Okamoto, however, brought proven power in NPB with a strong plate approach and the defensive versatility to handle multiple corner spots. The Blue Jays are simply hungrier and presented a better opportunity for preferred playing time."
A pair of Japanese players the Cubs targeted signed with other teams, highlighting a quiet winter for general manager Jed Hoyer and the front office. The Cubs have made defendable moves but have not addressed a thin rotation or replaced lost offensive production. Addressing those needs would likely require trading from a depleted farm system or competing with Boras-represented sluggers. Tatsuya Imai's contract terms were less compatible with the Cubs' timeline, while Kazuma Okamoto offered power and defensive versatility and chose Toronto for clearer playing time. The Cubs have prioritized bullpen rebuilding and a bench addition while rivals continue aggressive upgrades.
Read at Cubsinsider
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