The Chicago Cubs are a better ball club heading into the 2025 MLB season.
Coming off a season in which they finished tied for second in the National League Central with the St. Louis Cardinals at an 83-79 record, Chicago trailed only the 93-69 Milwaukee Brewers.
With the Cubs trending in the right direction and the Cardinals trending in the wrong direction (the Nolan Arenado situation could get messy), it seems likely they will challenge the Brewers for the division title.
Chicago are an improved team, highlighted by the acquisition of Kyle Tucker. However, they missed out on some other big swings, such as free agent infielder Alex Bregman.
In a recent MLB offseason grades article from The Athletic, the Cubs received a B grade, likely being a Bregman signing away from an A.
The lineup looks much better on paper, with Tucker in the middle of the order. The front office also significantly improved the bullpen with the acquisitions of Ryan Pressly, Ryan Brasier, and Eli Morgan.
Although it is challenging to say Chicago is now a clear contender in the National League, the team at least has a shot at making the playoffs. Given how MLB playoffs typically play out, anyone who makes it realistically has a chance.
While the offseason could have been even better, Cubs fans should be happy with the team heading into this season.
