Cubs Update: Tucker, Imanaga, Horton, and Coaching Staff Highlights

The Chicago Cubs concluded a successful 2025 season but faced an early exit after losing Game Five of the Division Series to the Milwaukee Brewers. With the offseason approaching, the focus shifts to important decisions regarding player contracts and coaching staff changes.

Cubs Offseason Outlook and Key Decisions

President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer held a press conference recently, discussing the team’s plans for the offseason. One of the primary topics was Kyle Tucker’s impending free agency. Hoyer acknowledged the value of Tucker, stating, “Everyone can use a guy like Kyle Tucker. Everyone gets better by having a player like that,” indicating the organization’s desire to retain him.

Kyle Tucker’s Performance and Impact

Kyle Tucker played a critical role for the Cubs this season. Acquired prior to the 2025 season, he performed well in the first half, achieving a batting average of .291 with a .395 on-base percentage and .537 slugging percentage, resulting in a wRC+ of 157. However, his performance declined due to injuries, including a finger fracture and a calf strain.

• First Half Stats: .291/.395/.537, 157 wRC+, 20 stolen bases
• Second Half Stats: .225/.348/.342, 103 wRC+
• Postseason Stats: .259/.375/.370, 118 wRC+

Despite a challenging end to the season, Tucker’s overall performance since 2021 includes a combined batting line of .277/.365/.514 and 143 wRC+, along with 105 stolen bases. His value is reflected in a fan-generated Wins Above Replacement (WAR) of 23.4 over this period.

Shota Imanaga’s Contract Situation

Another notable player in the Cubs’ future plans is left-handed pitcher Shota Imanaga. His contract presents complexities as the organization must decide whether to activate a three-year, $57.5 million option for the 2026-2028 seasons. If declined, Imanaga has a player option for 2026 valued at $15.25 million.

Hoyer expressed satisfaction with Imanaga’s contributions thus far, highlighting his production and teammate qualities. However, Imanaga’s performance wavered in 2025, where he had a 3.73 ERA with a diminishing fastball velocity. Given his age and trend, the Cubs may reconsider his future with the organization.

Pitching Rotation and Future Prospects

As the Cubs strategize their rotation for the next season, several key pitchers are expected to return. Cade Horton is recovering from a rib fracture and would have participated in the NLCS had the Cubs advanced. Justin Steele is also anticipated back following UCL surgery, adding depth to the roster.

• Pitchers in the mix for next season:
• Matthew Boyd
• Jameson Taillon
• Cade Horton

Colin Rea is also part of the conversation due to his $6 million club option. The Cubs could look for a more frontline starter in the offseason, perhaps considering free agents like Framber Valdez and Dylan Cease.

Coaching Staff Stability

Regarding the coaching staff, Hoyer confirmed that everyone will be invited back for the upcoming season. However, with eight managerial vacancies in the league, there remains a possibility that some coaches may be pursued by other teams. This uncertainty could lead to a dynamic shift within the Cubs’ coaching structure.

All these decisions will shape the Cubs’ strategy as they prepare for the 2026 season and beyond, ensuring they remain competitive in the league.