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The Leadoff Man

The 2024 Cubs season is officially in the rearview, and with it, we say goodbye to this chapter of "Cubs Superfans." It's been an incredible ride following this team's highs, lows, and future hopes, and I’ve cherished every moment. In today’s newsletter, we’ll look ahead to what 2025 might bring, including the need for a true ace to elevate our starting rotation. We’ll also bid farewell to a Cubs legend, Kyle Hendricks, and take a peek at the young talent knocking on the MLB door. So, here’s to brighter days ahead and one last newsletter.

Cubs Need a Stud Pitcher for 2025

The Cubs need a true ace to elevate them into the elite tier of MLB contenders. 

While Justin Steele has had a fantastic run, the Cubs need a marquee pitcher to anchor the rotation in 2025. Steele would be a great option for Game 2 or 3 of a playoff series, but we need someone who can face MLB’s best in a Game 1 scenario.

The free-agent market has intriguing names. Gerrit Cole could opt out of his contract with the Yankees, but landing him feels like a long shot for the Cubs. Corbin Burnes, however, is a much more realistic target. With his history under new Cubs manager Craig Counsell, Burnes could be the missing piece in the rotation. Another name that jumps out is Walker Buehler from the Dodgers, though health concerns may limit his potential. If the Cubs can land a true ace this offseason, it might be the final piece to make a deep playoff push in 2025.

Saying Goodbye to Kyle Hendricks

Kyle Hendricks, a Cubs legend, is likely leaving after a decade of masterful pitching. 

It’s hard to imagine the Cubs without Kyle Hendricks. For 10 years, Hendricks embodied the control and finesse of his idol, Greg Maddux. But his contract is up, and we’ll unlikely see him back in 2025.

Hendricks was a key cog in the Cubs' 2016 World Series run, delivering under pressure with his pinpoint accuracy and calm demeanor. Though his velocity never wowed, his ability to outsmart hitters made him a fan favorite. Watching Hendricks work the corners of the plate with precision was like watching an artist at his peak. For me, his contributions to the 2016 team alone make him a Cubs legend for life. Here’s hoping he finds success wherever he lands next, but his time at Wrigley won’t be forgotten anytime soon..

The Future in Right Field & Bellinger’s Decision

Owen Caissie and Matt Shaw are MLB-ready, and Seiya Suzuki could be moved for pitching. 

With two nearly MLB-ready prospects in Owen Caissie and Matt Shaw, the Cubs have some flexibility in shaping the 2025 roster. Caissie, in particular, looks poised to take over right field, especially if Seiya Suzuki is traded. Suzuki put up solid numbers in 2024 but could have more value as a trade piece, potentially bringing back a young, controllable starting pitcher.

As for Cody Bellinger, the decision around his opt-out clause will be crucial. Bellinger has a player opt-out after the 2024 season, but the Cubs should think long and hard before letting him go. His bat, glove, and leadership have been valuable assets, and the $27.5 million he’s owed for 2025 could still be a solid investment. With prospects like Caissie waiting in the wings, it’s important to balance the roster without losing key veterans like Bellinger who can stabilize the team during another playoff push.

The Closer

As we close out the 2024 season and this newsletter, I can’t help but feel optimistic about where the Cubs are headed. A few key moves, including the addition of a top-tier pitcher, could position the team for a serious run in 2025. Saying goodbye to Kyle Hendricks is tough, but we have a great crop of young talent ready to step in and contribute.

On a personal note, it’s been an honor sharing my thoughts on the Cubs throughout this journey. Though I’ll always have a love-hate (but mostly love) relationship with this team, I’m shifting gears to focus on other projects, including my passion for podcasting and radio. Thank you for joining me on this ride, and I hope you continue to enjoy the highs and lows of Cubs fandom.

Go Cubs Go,
Superfan Mark