The Chicago Cubs have had a relatively quiet offseason so far, but that could be about to change as the team looks to make impactful additions on both sides of the ball. Chicago is reportedly targeting more offensive depth while also bolstering its pitching staff.
Meanwhile, the Cubs have been linked to potential trades involving Nico Hoerner and Matt Shaw, two key infielders who could draw interest from other teams. MLB insider Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports that the Cubs are actively pursuing veteran pitcher Zac Gallen and are also exploring the addition of an outfielder.
“They’ve been linked to Gallen, and another outfielder could make sense,” Heyman wrote. “They’ve been listening on star second baseman Hoerner, who’s entering his walk year, and second-year infielder Shaw, with Boston a possible fit as they look to improve their infield while adding an extra outfielder.”
Gallen, a 30-year-old right-hander, would provide the Cubs with a No. 3 or No. 4 starter and add much-needed veteran leadership to the rotation. Last season with the Arizona Diamondbacks, Gallen went 13-15 with a 4.83 ERA over 33 starts, and he was an All-Star in 2023, making him an attractive target for Chicago.
Regarding the outfielder, it’s not yet clear who the Cubs are eyeing. Top remaining free-agent outfielders include Starling Marte, Michael Conforto, Randal Grichuk, Jesse Winker, Max Kepler, and Tommy Pham. The Cubs could also acquire a player through a trade involving Hoerner or Shaw, keeping them active in the market leading up to spring training.
The Cubs have been linked to a potential trade with the Boston Red Sox, which could involve sending Hoerner or Shaw in exchange for an outfielder such as Jarren Duran. “Donovan is off the board. Paredes isn’t a great fit, nor was Suarez,” noted an insider. “Would the Red Sox pay up for Hoerner or Shaw? Cubs are listening. The cost would be high, especially for Hoerner, but it aligns with the team’s focus on 2026 rather than just the future.”
Earlier talks with Gallen didn’t result in a deal, but according to MLB insider Bruce Levine of 670 The Score, discussions have now intensified. The Cubs are reportedly considering a short-term deal, while president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer confirmed that adding pitching remains the team’s top priority. “That’s going to be our focus,” Hoyer said. “We plan to explore trades and free agency, both at the top of the market and in minor-league options.”
With spring training approaching, the Cubs appear poised to make significant roster moves that could reshape their lineup and rotation, signaling a potentially exciting start to the 2026 season.