If the Chicago Cubs manage to acquire superstar third baseman Alex Bregman, they will likely need to part ways with some current rostered players.
Chicago remains one of the final teams in the running for Bregman, joining the Houston Astros, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Detroit Tigers as known contenders for the World Series star.
However, Bregman wouldn’t be the Cubs’ only major move this offseason. They have already added key players like Kyle Tucker, Ryan Pressly, and Ryan Brasier. These acquisitions have pushed Chicago close to the luxury tax threshold, a financial concern that would become even more pressing if they sign Bregman.
With that in mind, the Cubs would need to offload players to make room for Bregman both financially and in terms of roster space.
3. Jameson Taillon Could Be on His Way Out
While this scenario isn’t widely reported, moving Jameson Taillon could make financial sense if the Cubs land Bregman. The right-handed pitcher is set to earn $18 million in both 2025 and 2026, and while his salary aligns with his market value, clearing that amount would help offset Bregman’s potential $30 million annual contract.
Several teams in need of starting pitching could be interested in Taillon. The Atlanta Braves, for instance, might offer former All-Star Bryce Elder in return, while the Baltimore Orioles could consider a deal involving outfielder Heston Kjerstad. Though not a certainty, trading Taillon is an option the Cubs could explore if Bregman joins the team.
2. Trading Seiya Suzuki Seems Likely
Unlike Taillon, Seiya Suzuki has already been mentioned in trade rumors due to his hefty contract and defensive struggles. Earlier in the offseason, the Cubs reportedly sought trade partners for Suzuki but ultimately sent Cody Bellinger to the Yankees instead.
Suzuki is owed $85 million over the next two seasons, a financial burden that could make him a trade candidate if the Cubs add Bregman. With a crop of young outfielders in the pipeline, moving Suzuki would provide salary relief and help balance the roster.
1. Nico Hoerner is the Most Likely Trade Candidate
Among all the potential moves, trading Nico Hoerner appears to be the most straightforward. The Cubs are expected to promote top prospect Matt Shaw, which would create an infield logjam if Bregman joins the mix.
Hoerner is owed $23.5 million over the next two seasons and has already been involved in trade speculation. Teams looking for infield reinforcements, such as the New York Yankees, could be prime trade partners, especially since they have yet to find a replacement for Gleyber Torres at second base.
If the Cubs secure Bregman, dealing Hoerner would not only free up payroll but also allow them to acquire valuable prospects while staying under the luxury tax threshold.