The Chicago Cubs have made their bullpen a top priority in the early stages of the offseason, recognizing that improving their pitching staff is essential for success in 2025. While focusing on the mound is a logical approach, the Cubs’ leadership, including Jed Hoyer, must also address the team’s lackluster offense, which significantly hindered their 2024 campaign. Without offensive upgrades, any progress on the pitching front might not translate into meaningful improvement.
So far, the Cubs have taken necessary steps during the offseason, though the top free agents remain unsigned, likely due to Juan Soto’s pending decision. Speculation suggests the Cubs may not compete for the most elite players on the market, a disappointment for fans, but judgment should be reserved until all moves are finalized. Operating within potential budget constraints, Hoyer’s task is to assemble the best roster possible under the given circumstances.
One notable prediction comes from The Athletic’s Jim Bowden, who foresees the Cubs signing reliever Carlos Estévez to a three-year, $33 million contract. Estévez would bring much-needed stability to the bullpen. In 2024, he excelled with a 2.38 ERA across 34 appearances for the Los Angeles Angels, saving 20 games before being traded to the Philadelphia Phillies. With Philadelphia, he maintained strong performance metrics, posting a 2.57 ERA over 20 games with six saves. Opposing hitters struggled against his entire arsenal—his four-seam fastball, slider, and changeup—all of which held batters under a .200 average.
Estévez’s impressive 2024 season solidified his reputation as a reliable late-inning option. Although Hoyer has expressed a preference for adding a left-handed reliever to the bullpen, Estévez’s effectiveness and relatively affordable price tag make him an appealing choice. A projected annual average value (AAV) of $11 million aligns with the Cubs’ potential budget, making him a practical target.
While there are inherent risks in signing a player coming off a career-best season, Estévez’s track record suggests he could remain a valuable asset even with some regression. His 2024 numbers—particularly a 2.45 overall ERA—indicate he is capable of being a sub-3.45 ERA pitcher, offering consistency and reliability in high-leverage situations.
By pursuing Estévez, the Cubs would take a significant step toward solidifying their bullpen. However, their offseason strategy must remain balanced, ensuring they address the glaring offensive deficiencies that plagued them in 2024. Only by improving on both fronts can the Cubs hope to make meaningful strides toward contention in 2025.
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