3 needs for the Chicago Cubs at the Winter Meetings

The Winter Meetings take place for Major League Baseball, with the latest being that the Chicago Cubs are aggressively looking for ways to improve their roster.

One of those efforts could involve a trade for Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Garrett Crochet. Crochet is expected to be the top name available in trade talks at the Winter Meetings with the Cubs believed to be battling with their division rival, the Cincinnati Reds.

The Cubs' moves up until this point have suggested that there is a larger trade in the works. The Cubs added a starting pitcher in Matthew Boyd who could have upside but feels like there would need to be another addition to the rotation if the goal was truly to strengthen their starting rotation. Meanwhile, the Cubs have taken fliers on several veterans for their bullpen but still could use a legitimate option for late innings.

With the Winter Meetings starting this weekend, a look at the Cubs' current needs.

1. Left-handed power bat

Like it or not, the Cubs seem to be geared toward trading Cody Bellinger as soon as Juan Soto signs in free agency. The impression is that the Cubs plan on using the money saved by trading Bellinger on other areas of need. With that in mind, and a hope that they aren't fully planning on Owen Caissie being the reason for their offensive improvement in 2025, the Cubs should add a left-handed power bat before Opening Day.

2. Closer

There is a lot to like from the surprise season that Porter Hodge had in the Cubs' bullpen during the 2024 season. While Hodge certainly flashed signs that he is capable of being the closer for the Cubs, it's not something that should be set in stone. Adding another late-inning option such as Clay Holmes would add much-needed security in the Cubs' bullpen.

3. Catcher

A catcher shouldn't really make a huge difference with regard to whether or not a team can contend but on a roster that doesn't include a star bat, offensive production at every position is needed. Miguel Amaya had a stretch in 2024 that made up for his early-season struggles but those struggles returned during the final month of the season. Matt Thaiss isn't a threat to Amaya's playing time but the Cubs would be wise to add an established veteran.