The Chicago Cubs might be ready to make a move in the National League.

The Cubs won 83 games in each of the last two seasons but failed to make the playoffs. The team dealt with injuries last season but look to appear healthy once again. It was a big offseason for the Cubs and it was led by the addition of Kyle Tucker.

The Houston Astros made the left-handed star available via trade and the Cubs were one of the teams linked immediately. They were able to get a deal done and add one of the best players in baseball. With this addition, the Cubs outfield has become interesting. Tucker joins young, emerging star Pete Crow-Armstrong, who many believe is ready to take the next step this year. Ian Happ is a Gold Glover in left field and this trio makes up a strong outfield in the NL.

Both Dansby Swanson and Nico Hoerner underwent surgeries in the offseason. At full strength, this is a good defensive duo that can be pesky at the plate. Swanson is expected to be ready but Hoerner is up in the air. Seiya Suzuki has translated well to the MLB and has become an extremely patient hitter.

The starting rotation has plenty of upside but also a low floor if things go south. Justin Steele brings plenty of hope for the rotation, with Shota Imanaga at the top. Jameson Taillon and Matthew Boyd are veteran arms that can eat up innings in the middle of the rotation. This is something that all teams need heading into the season.

The NL Central is a deep division all of a sudden with Chicago right in the mix. The addition of Tucker puts the Cubs as one of the favorites to win the division and a team that can return to the postseason if all goes right.

2025 Chicago Cubs Season Preview

Major Additions: Kyle Tucker, Justin Turner, Jon Berti, Matthew Boyd, Carson Kelly, Ryan Pressly

Key Losses: Kyle Hendricks, Cody Bellinger, Drew Smyly, Isaac Paredes

Potential Lineup

1. Ian Happ, OF
2. Kyle Tucker, OF
3. Seiya Suzuki, DH
4. Michael Busch, 1B
5. Dansby Swanson, SS
6. Nico Hoerner, 2B
7. Pete Crow-Armstrong, OF
8. Matt Shaw, 3B
9. Miguel Amaya, C

Potential Rotation

• Shota Imanaga
• Justin Steele
• Jameson Taillon
• Matt Boyd
• Colin Rea

Record Prediction

The Cubs have won 83 games in each of the last two seasons. They have been a middle-of-the-road team in baseball and only got better this offseason. Tucker adds more wins to the ledger right away with an experienced pitching staff that has a high ceiling. Right now, the Cubs can be considered the favorites in the division.

Final Record: 88-74