As the Chicago Cubs inch closer to the end of the 2024 season, their chances of making the National League wild-card race are slipping away. With the team potentially missing the playoffs for the fourth year in a row, the focus is shifting to the offseason and the crucial decisions facing General Manager Jed Hoyer. The Cubs are poised to address numerous gaps on their roster to better compete in the future.
The Cubs’ pitching staff has shown impressive performance this year. Despite a month-long absence, Justin Steele has returned to his strong 2023 form. Shota Imanaga has had some recent struggles but remains a valuable asset in the rotation. Kyle Hendricks and Javier Assad have been consistent, while Jameson Taillon has been dependable. Ben Brown has also contributed effectively before a peculiar neck injury impacted his season.
Although the Cubs’ pitching has been solid, uncertainty looms for 2025. Steele, Imanaga, and Taillon are expected to return, but injuries to promising young pitchers like Brown, Jordan Wicks, and Cade Horton cast doubt on the team’s pitching depth. Hendricks is set to become a free agent, and Assad may be better suited as a long reliever in the bullpen.
This uncertainty highlights the Cubs’ need for a reliable starting pitcher. According to Bruce Levine from 670 The Score, Corbin Burnes is a top target for the Cubs this offseason. Burnes would be a significant boost to the Cubs’ rotation. With the current unpredictability surrounding their young pitchers, adding Burnes could solidify the Cubs’ pitching staff as one of the best in baseball.
Burnes, who has a career ERA of 3.23 and is currently boasting a 3.10 ERA with the Baltimore Orioles, could command a substantial contract as he approaches his 30th birthday. His familiarity with Cubs’ manager Craig Counsell makes the fit even more promising. Securing Burnes would represent a crucial step for the Cubs, though it’s clear that additional moves will be necessary to address the team’s ongoing offensive struggles.