The Chicago Cubs entered 2024 with lofty ambitions, but their season hasn’t quite lived up to the initial hype. Despite battling injuries and enduring a few unlucky breaks, the Cubs remain in contention for a National League wild card spot. However, the front office’s actions at the trade deadline suggested that 2025 is where the true focus lies, signaling hope for an even more competitive future.
That hope, as always, is buoyed by potential free-agent acquisitions. And in this case, the Cubs have been recently linked to one of the most high-profile names in recent MLB memory—Yankees superstar Juan Soto. Soto’s impending free agency has sparked widespread speculation, with some insiders suggesting that the Cubs could be in play for a megadeal. According to The Athletic, Soto could command a staggering $560 million over 14 years, making him the next Shohei Ohtani-level target.
Cubs ‘Could Likely Afford’ Pursuit of Soto
Two of baseball’s most prominent insiders, ESPN’s Jeff Passan and the New York Post’s Jon Heyman, have both identified the Cubs as potential players in the race for Soto. Passan, while acknowledging that Soto’s floor salary starts at $500 million, noted that only a few teams would realistically be able to handle such a contract. He identified the Cubs, along with the Boston Red Sox and both Los Angeles teams, as potential bidders. However, Passan cautioned that even though these teams could afford Soto, the reality of signing him remains a long shot.
Heyman, on the other hand, currently lists the Yankees as the “even money” favorites to retain Soto, citing their strong relationship and Soto’s stellar performance in New York. But he also added that the Mets could be serious contenders. While the Cubs may be long shots in this race, they are not entirely out of the picture, and they could make a splash if the bidding process opens wider.
Cubs Could Free Up Space for a Major Signing
While the odds may be stacked against the Cubs signing Soto, their financial situation could allow them to make a significant move in the free-agent market. Depending on how Cody Bellinger handles his $27 million player option, the Cubs’ payroll could drop to around $155 million after the season. That would leave plenty of room to pursue a big-name player—whether it’s Soto or someone else.
Soto, with his .291 batting average, .419 on-base percentage, .582 slugging percentage, and career-high 37 home runs this season, would be a massive addition to the Cubs lineup. His power and consistency would instantly transform an offense that is currently lacking a true middle-of-the-order slugger.
Plan B: Cubs Eyeing Pete Alonso?
Though the Cubs’ pursuit of Soto may seem like a long shot, there are other big names on the market that could fit the team’s needs. One of the more realistic options is Mets first baseman Pete Alonso. If the Yankees and Mets find themselves in a bidding war over Soto, Alonso could become available, offering the Cubs a more affordable alternative. Alonso has been a consistent power threat and would be a perfect fit for a team eager to add more pop to its lineup.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Whether the Cubs land Soto, Alonso, or another top-tier free agent, the message is clear—the organization is preparing for 2025 and beyond. With some of their best young talent developing and the financial flexibility to make a splash in free agency, the Cubs are positioning themselves for another run at the postseason, and potentially much more. While Juan Soto would be a dream addition, the Cubs have multiple paths to improve their roster and put themselves back among the league’s elite.
