Cubs Extend Qualifying Offers to Key Players as Offseason Begins

The Chicago Cubs have extended qualifying offers to left-hander Shota Imanaga and right fielder Kyle Tucker as they navigate the offseason. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, both players received offers worth $22.025 million, allowing them until November 18 to either accept and stay with the Cubs or decline and enter free agency.

The Cubs had previously declined Imanaga's three-year option, which amounted to around $58 million, but still aim to keep him in the fold. If Imanaga rejects the qualifying offer, the Cubs could negotiate a new, potentially smaller deal, while his agents field offers from other teams.

Meanwhile, Tucker, who recently won his second Silver Slugger Award, is expected to test the free-agent waters, though the Cubs will benefit from draft compensation if he signs elsewhere. Pitching remains a priority for the Cubs this offseason, particularly with Imanaga's potential departure.

The Cubs secured a return for right-hander Colin Rea with a one-year deal that includes a club option for 2027, valued at $6.5 million guaranteed, which could escalate to $13 million if the option is exercised.

Rea's contract represents an effort to maintain pitching depth, especially after the team faced challenges in securing a frontline starter during the previous season. President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer mentioned the increasing difficulty of making midseason trades due to a more competitive landscape among teams.

The Cubs are also dealing with injuries, as left-hander Justin Steele is recovering from elbow surgery, while rookie Cade Horton is expected to be ready for a normal offseason after a fractured rib. In addition to Imanaga and Tucker, the Cubs' bullpen needs attention, returning only two relievers with significant major league experience.

The situation is further complicated by the recent departure of veteran first baseman Justin Turner, who has become a free agent after the Cubs declined his $10 million mutual option for 2026. The Cubs' offseason strategy will be closely watched as they work to solidify their roster and address their pitching needs moving forward, with the focus on both retaining key players and exploring new acquisitions to enhance their competitive edge in the coming season.