Chicago Cubs’ latest payroll update will aggravate fans even more

The Chicago Cubs swung a trade to land pitcher Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins in a move that should absolutely make them a better team next season.

However, this isn’t exactly an example of the Cubs spending, as Cabrera is slated to make just $3.7 million in 2026. In fact, that is surely one of the reasons why Chicago was so motivated to swing a deal for the right-hander to begin with.

But now what?

The Cubs still need to add another bat, and they have been linked fairly consistently to Alex Bregman and Bo Bichette in recent weeks. They apparently even checked in on Cody Bellinger, and Kyle Tucker remains available. His demands may be dropping, too.

But is it possible that Chicago doesn’t make another truly impactful addition in free agency? Based on Tom Ricketts’ recent history, sure, and that will frustrate Cubs fans to no end, especially when you consider what their future payroll situation looks like.

Chicago Cubs fans should be prepared to get irritated

Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic urged Chicago to pursue another bat in a recent piece, questioning whether or not the Cubs can truly make a run with their lineup as currently constructed.

Chicago certainly has room to add a hitter, as the Cubs are still about $32 million under the luxury tax threshold. And when you look at their payroll for the following years, well, let’s just say that there is no excuse for Ricketts not to spend.

“Their future commitments – $39 million in 2027, $30 million in ‘28 and $26 million in ‘29 – are in the same range as the Cleveland Guardians, a team not exactly known for its spending,” Rosenthal wrote.

So why aren’t the Cubs being more aggressive again? Why is Tucker generally viewed as a sure-fire goner this winter?

Chicago is a huge, bustling city. Yet, the Cubs have not operated like a large-market franchise for years now. Yes, they traded for Tucker last winter, but it doesn’t mean all that much when you let him walk after just one season, especially considering what the Cubbies surrendered to acquire him.

Cabrera was a fine addition. No question. But now, Chicago needs to bolster its offense by signing a top bat. If the Cubs don’t do that, it will be rather difficult to take them seriously.

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