5 free agent closers the Cubs could sign this offseason

One of the Chicago Cubs' most glaring weaknesses has been the back of the bullpen, especially since Adbert Alzolay hit the injured list earlier this year. Alzolay served as the primary closer in 2023 but looked like a shell of his former self before getting sidelined.

Even if the Cubs end up selling or not making the playoffs this year, they are in a position to compete in 2025 and adding a legitimate closer with more experience and ability than Alzolay should be a top priority. The team has blown 17 save opportunities this year. Converting even half of those could have made a massive difference in the tight NL Central division race. The team cannot enter 2025 without an experienced arm for the ninth inning, and luckily there are a lot of options.

Below are five closing pitchers the Cubs could target in free agency this winter.

1. RHP Kenley Jansen

Although he will be going into his age 37 season, Kenley Jansen is still a solid option given his track record and continued success into the latter part of his career. The Boston Red Sox closer currently has a 2.16 ERA on the season, with 19 saves, 25 games finished, and 38 strikeouts. Although he doesn't throw as hard as he used to, Jansen is proving to still be more than capable of being a top closer in the game and he's remained relatively healthy to boot. Since 2021, Jansen has only made two brief trips to the injured list, and one of them did not even involve his arm or shoulder (irregular heartbeat).

Because of his age, Jansen would likely accept a shorter-term deal for two or three years. He would be a reliable option whose bad outings are very few and far between. His 439 career saves currently rank fifth all-time in MLB history, and his presence would bring much-needed experience and consistency to the back of Chicago's bullpen.