Cubs Projected to Land Phillies Ace on Four-Year, $110M Contract
Could the Chicago Cubs make a splash by signing a top-tier pitcher this offseason? With the Winter Meetings now over, Chicago remained relatively inactive, though several roster needs still loom large.
After a successful 2025 campaign, the Cubs look like a team trending upward, but major questions remain—chief among them the future of free-agent star Kyle Tucker. At this stage, it would be surprising if Tucker re-signed with Chicago, and his likely exit would create a sizable hole in the lineup. While internal replacements may help soften the blow, Tucker was an NL MVP contender during the first half of the season, making it logical for the Cubs to pursue another All-Star caliber bat to offset his loss.
Beyond offensive help, upgrading the starting rotation is also a priority. Chicago failed to address this area at the trade deadline, and the need persists heading into the offseason. Fortunately, free agency offers some quality pitching options, though whether the Cubs are willing to spend aggressively remains uncertain.
According to Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly, Chicago is projected to sign Philadelphia Phillies left-hander Ranger Suárez to a four-year, $110 million contract that includes a creative opt-out clause following the 2027 season.
Why Suárez Fits in Chicago
Given the Cubs’ need for rotation help, Suárez stands out as one of the top available arms. The 30-year-old southpaw has been a key contributor for the Phillies and is coming off an impressive 2025 season, finishing with a 12–8 record, a 3.20 ERA, and a 4.0 WAR—numbers that would make an immediate impact in Chicago.
Suárez also brings valuable postseason experience, something the Cubs covet as they aim for October success. Having pitched in high-pressure playoff environments, he offers a level of composure and reliability that could benefit a contending roster.
That said, durability is a concern. Suárez has never been a heavy workload pitcher, and his 157.1 innings in 2025 marked a career high. While he’s unlikely to be a 200-inning workhorse, he can still provide meaningful production at the front of the rotation.
The biggest hurdle may be cost. Landing Suárez would require a significant financial commitment, and Chicago has historically been cautious when it comes to spending. Whether that approach changes this winter remains to be seen.
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