Predicting the Cubs’ 2026 lineup is already a frustrating guessing game

The Chicago Cubs' playoff run has come to an end, and the front office is in the early stages of mapping out the months ahead. Of course, all eyes will be on the status of Kyle Tucker, who is set to become a free agent upon the conclusion of the World Series. The overwhelming expectation is that he will not be back with the Cubs, but that opens the door to some significant lineup questions.

It's not an ideal position to be in, considering the other top hitters on the free-agent market are Alex Bregman and Kyle Schwarber. With Shaw embedded at third base, the Cubs likely will not be entertaining the Bregman circus in the way that they did last offseason. Schwarber is the reunion that Cubs fans have been begging for, but reading between the lines, it seems that a return to Chicago is the last thing on the slugger's mind.

Way-too-early 2026 Chicago Cubs' starting lineup projection

Projecting the 2026 Cubs' starting lineup, for this exercise, does not take potential moves into account. It's simply taking a look at who the Cubs have under contract next season, and how they can fit into the starting lineup.

Michael Busch, 1B

Michael Busch's power display during the playoffs was a reminder that he's not just the Cubs' long-term option at first base; he very well could be their next superstar. It doesn't quite seem that the Cubs are ready to give Pete Crow-Armstrong a look at the top of the lineup, and, at least against righties, Busch will continue to get the top spot.

Nico Hoerner, 2B

If the Chicago Cubs add an impact bat to replace Tucker this offseason, this likely will be their spot. Until then, Nico Hoerner is the best option.

Ian Happ, LF

It wouldn't be a complete shock if the Cubs approach Ian Happ about waiving his no-trade clause this offseason. Assuming they won't be spending heavily, the Cubs will need to be creative in how they approach upgrading their roster this winter.

Seiya Suzuki, DH

During the first half of the season, Seiya Suzuki was well on his way to having the best season of his career. Second-half struggles, however, resulted in Suzuki having the second-lowest wRC+ mark of his career. Consistency will be the key for Suzuki as he enters the final season of his contract.

Pete Crow-Armstrong, CF

It remains to be seen if the power that Pete Crow-Armstrong displayed during the first half of his 2025 season will return, but when he's right, Crow-Armstrong is among the best hitters in the Cubs' lineup.

Owen Caissie, RF

Owen Caissie will likely be given the Matt Shaw treatment this offseason. It seems clear that Caissie is on track to be the Cubs' Opening Day right fielder, unless the front office wants to get aggressive with upgrading the roster.

Carson Kelly/Miguel Amaya, C

With Miguel Amaya returning to full health next offseason, it seems that the Cubs will be running back their platoon of Amaya and Carson Kelly next season. Kelly will benefit by not having to catch as many games as he did in 2025.

Dansby Swanson, SS

At this point in his career, Dansby Swanson needs to be at the bottom of the Cubs' lineup. Swanson still has some pop, but there are too many holes in his swing to have him hit in a spot of consequence.

Matt Shaw, 3B

The playoffs made it clear that Matt Shaw is in need of another adjustment to his approach. He has a full offseason to put the work in, and the Cubs will need to see offensive growth from him in 2026.