The Chicago Cubs’ payroll is approaching $200 million, and owner Tom Ricketts has stated that the payroll will rise before the season to get close to the first tier of the luxury tax. However, the Cubs will aim to stay just below the threshold this year, having surpassed it last season. A consecutive year over the tax would result in a 30% penalty on all dollars spent over the limit.
Financial Constraints for Jed Hoyer and Front Office
Despite the Cubs being a major market team, financial constraints have shaped their offseason moves. Owner Tom Ricketts has set specific payroll parameters, meaning general manager Jed Hoyer and the front office must work within these limits. Fans may want the Cubs to act like a big-market team, but they must recognize these financial realities. Nonetheless, rumors suggest the Cubs will make a significant move before the offseason ends.
A trade for Ryan Pressly, the Houston Astros’ closer, is one of the most realistic moves for the Cubs. Reports indicate that the deal is in place, pending Pressly’s decision on waiving his no-trade clause. Moving to Chicago could offer Pressly an excellent opportunity to showcase his abilities in a contract year, as he would step into the Cubs’ closer role, increasing his free-agent value.
Pressly’s Personal Situation Could Impact Trade
While the trade could benefit both parties, Pressly faces a personal dilemma. His family resides in Texas, and a move to Chicago would disrupt his home life. However, with his contract year approaching, relocating might be the best career move, especially if he seeks a new contract. Pressly is still far from retirement, so a change of scenery could help his future prospects.
If Pressly remains with the Astros, the Cubs may turn to David Robertson as a reliable backup option. Robertson, now 39, previously served as the Cubs’ closer in 2022, posting a 2.23 ERA. Though a bit older, Robertson has maintained consistent performance with a 2.82 ERA over the last three seasons. His familiarity with the Cubs and Wrigley Field makes him an ideal fallback if Pressly doesn’t join the team.
Jack Flaherty is another potential target for the Cubs, but he represents a risky move. Flaherty, who has battled injuries in recent years, showed flashes of his potential in 2024. However, given his injury history, the Cubs may only pursue Flaherty on a short-term, “prove-it” deal. The risk lies in his potential to underperform or get injured again, which could lead to financial complications, particularly with the looming possibility of signing Kyle Tucker.
The Cubs’ potential interest in Alex Bregman is complicated by financial factors. While Bregman is an accomplished third baseman, his salary demands could push the Cubs beyond their budget for other needs, like bullpen help. Even a short-term deal for Bregman would be financially challenging, and the Cubs would have to make significant roster changes to accommodate him. In the end, Bregman seems unlikely to join the Cubs, with teams like Boston or Detroit being more realistic landing spots.