Cubs News: Shota Imanaga Qualifying Offer, Kyle Hendricks tribute, Rule 5 draft

Decision day has arrived for former Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Shota Imanaga, who has until 3 pm on Tuesday to accept the qualifying offer from the Cubs. While a return to the Cubs wouldn't entirely be ruled out for Imanaga if he were to turn down the qualifying offer, it would seem that the Cubs would let his market play out before circling back to find common ground on a deal.

Along those lines, MLB Network's Jon Morosi touched on the Cubs' interest in Dylan Cease and Michael King, but it wasn't anything entirely new from what was reported over the weekend. Along those lines, from Morosi's interpretation, it does seem that the Imanaga decision will map out their offseason approach a little more clearly.

In the event that Imanaga turns down the qualifying offer, it would seem that the Cubs would be in the market for two starting pitchers. It's tough to see the Cubs signing both Cease and King, but it could be a scenario where they sign one and then trade for a cost-controlled starting pitcher.

Procedurally, Kyle Tucker will officially turn down the Cubs' qualifying offer today, as it remains the expectation that he will not be returning to the team.

Cubs News: Kyle Hendricks' retirement becomes official with heartwarming social media tribute

Kyle Hendricks' retirement was made official on Monday, with the Cubs paying tribute with a touching video on social media.

Tom Ricketts also released a statement congratulating Hendricks on his retirement, while reflecting on the impact the veteran starting pitcher had with the Cubs. Ricketts' statement certainly teased the idea that an ambassador role could be in Hendricks' future, who could also make an appearance at the Cubs Convention in January. The convention is expected to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the World Series team.

Cubs News: 40-man roster is ready for protected prospects to be added

Tuesday also marks the deadline for teams to add Rule 5 eligible prospects to their 40-man roster to protect them from the draft that takes place during the Winter Meetings in December. James Triantos leads the list of several prospects who could be added to the 40-man roster.

While there usually is a fair amount of maneuvering to take place as a way to fit the prospects on the 40-man roster, the Cubs' 40-man roster currently stands at 28. With 12 open spots, the Cubs can easily add the desired prospects to their roster without risk of needing to make a corresponding move.