Jed Hoyer reveals landing Alex Bregman wasn't the finish line to the Cubs' offseason

Alex Bregman's press conference felt like the culmination of the Chicago Cubs' offseason. The Cubs went to lengths they haven't gone in years before to ensure Bregman's arrival, and in doing so, have walked up to the first level of the CBT. While that has led to speculation that the Cubs may trade Nico Hoerner to clear payroll space, Hoyer sidestepped the question while speaking with reporters.

True to form, Hoyer didn't silence the trade rumors, but the impression remains that the Cubs will open the 2026 season with Hoerner as their starting second baseman. Elsewhere, while confirming that the Cubs have "checked some of the big boxes" off their offseason to-do list, Hoyer revealed that the team wasn't done making moves.

Jed Hoyer drops hint about what’s still coming for the Cubs post-Alex Bregman

Of course, a potential trade of Hoerner or Matt Shaw would certainly be the definition of the Cubs not being done. Again, those are moves that the team shouldn't feel compelled to make.

If the Cubs are a contender in 2026, the expectation should be that they will eventually go over the luxury tax. Staying under the luxury tax shouldn't be viewed as the primary reason why Hoerner could be traded.

While Shaw has lost his starting spot with the Cubs, he still has value as a utility infielder on the bench. Not to mention, he could easily be the Cubs' starting second baseman next season if Hoerner leaves via free agency.

One depth move for the Cubs should be looking for an established fourth outfielder. As of now, Kevin Alcantara may be on the inside track to serving in that role, but the recently claimed Justin Dean could push for that spot. A right-handed hitting veteran outfielder could make sense for the Cubs, especially one capable of playing center field and right field.

While the Cubs have spent nearly $30M reconstructing their bullpen this offseason, they still could be in the market for an experienced closer. Daniel Palencia and Hunter Harvey are likely the strongest candidates to open the season as the team's closer, but each enters the year with some questions. Palencia looked the part for various stretches throughout the 2025 season, but this year would mark his first full season in the role. Harvey's track record with injuries also makes him a bit of a gamble.

Adding a closer will likely be at the top of the Cubs' wish list at the deadline, assuming they are a contender. For now, unless there is an unforeseen trade, Hoyer will close out the offseason on the margins. Something Cubs fans likely won't mock now that the team has Bregman.