The Cubs and Alex Bregman can be a perfect match. Chicago needs a proven third baseman, and the two-time World Series champion fits the gap. With the Cubs looking to compete in the upcoming period, signing Alex Bregman could be a game-changer. However, there is a vital roadblock, team ownership; while Jed Hoyer focuses on enhancing resources, financial limitations could stop the Cubs back. As the team works with the Competitive Balance Tax, the final call on Alex Bregman could come down to management’s need to spend.

The Cubs carry the key to whether Alex Bregman joins the team; as PJ Mooney highlighted at North Side Territory, “Alex Bregman is in a lot of ways going to come down to management.” The team is already near the CBT threshold, so, making any vital signing including Bregman will be subject to management’s approval. Tom Ricketts has highlighted that some of their spending decisions rely on “how the market shakes out” and how competitive the team looks at the trade deadline. This uncertainty puts force on the front office, as Hoyer needs to run within the financial limits established by the team.

The team has been cautious with large contracts before, missing out on stars like Carlos Correa and Xander Bogaerts. If the management hesitates again, history could repeat itself. While Hoyer needs to optimize every dollar, “We do not know how high Jed has been authorized to go,” as Mooney highlighted. If Ricketts does not give the green light, the Cubs could lose out on Alex Bregman. With the team placed to compete, this decision could decide their off-season.

What this is for the Cubs’ future

If the Cubs fail to land Alex Bregman, the team will need to look elsewhere. Internally, Christopher Morel is a vital option. However, his defensive issues make him a risky everyday third baseman. In addition, the free-agent market provides cheaper alternatives; however, none with Bregman’s skills. The larger issue is whether management’s hesitation highlights a broader trend. As Mooney pointed out, “It could not be the CBT number,” saying that spending limits could be tighter than expected. If the Cubs will not push their payroll for Bregman, will they be aggressive at the trade deadline?

This also raises issues related to their long-term approach. The team has a powerful farm system, but elite teams do not rely solely on prospects. The Dodgers as well as the Braves blend young talent with star veterans, and the Cubs might need to do the same. Management’s reluctance to spend could stop the team from keeping up with baseball’s biggest spenders; if they lose Alex Bregman, it could be a sign that financial caution will dictate their future moves. The team has the resources to contend, however, only if they are ready to invest in top-tier talent.

The Cubs have a real shot at landing Bregman; but will they make a championship move? Share your take in the comments below.