Nearly a decade after their magical 2016 World Series victory, the Chicago Cubs are showing signs they haven’t lost their winning edge. Their first series win since 2017 has reignited excitement in Wrigleyville and reminded fans that this franchise still has championship ambitions. But the big question remains: can they turn flashes of brilliance into a sustained push that lasts all season?
Owner Tom Ricketts made it clear that the Cubs’ sights are set high. “Obviously, we want to win the division,” Ricketts told the Marquee Sports Network. “We should win the division. It’s just a matter of executing and staying healthy. I think we should be right there.”
Ricketts’ comments aren’t just pep talk—they’re a statement of intent. With significant offseason investments, the Cubs are no longer a team hoping to sneak into the playoffs. They’re a team built to compete, to dominate, and to chase a World Series title.
“You want to win the division for a lot of reasons because it’s aggravating not to, but you want to put yourself in the best position in the playoffs as well,” Ricketts added. “Hopefully, we execute that plan and be there at the end of the season.”
And make no mistake—this is more than talk. The front office, led by President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer and manager Craig Counsell, went all-in to construct a roster that can contend immediately. Their approach blends star power with depth, creating a team that isn’t just built to compete in April, but to thrive in October when every pitch counts.
The marquee move? Signing superstar third baseman Alex Bregman to a five-year, $175 million deal. The Cubs also landed talented pitcher Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins, signaling their commitment to a roster that can make a deep postseason run. These aren’t just additions—they’re statements that the Cubs are playing for keeps.
If their pitching stays healthy, the Cubs can field a formidable six-man rotation anchored by Justin Steele, while the bullpen has been bolstered with key pieces like Jacob Webb and Hunter Harvey—underrated arms who could make a huge difference in high-pressure playoff situations.
Of course, the Los Angeles Dodgers, last year’s champions, remain the team to beat, and the National League is stacked with talent. But Ricketts’ confidence reflects a bigger truth: this Cubs team has the tools, the depth, and the leadership to compete with anyone in baseball.
The roadmap is clear. Win the division, position themselves for playoff success, and ride momentum into October. The Cubs have all the pieces: veteran stars, rising talent, and a front office willing to take calculated risks. What remains is execution. If injuries are avoided and the new additions click, Wrigleyville could be on the verge of another historic postseason.
Fans are buzzing, expectations are high, and the pressure is on—but this is exactly the environment that breeds champions. For the Chicago Cubs, the message is unmistakable: they aren’t just back—they’re aiming to reclaim the crown, and this could be the season that puts them back on top.