At the Chicago Cubs’ annual fan convention, owner Tom Ricketts stood before the buzzing crowd of fans. However, everyone was expecting the owner to be eager to share the excitement and provide updates about the club’s future. But as Ricketts took the stage, he found himself in a different kind of spotlight, defending his financial decisions and responding to an ongoing narrative against him. His message was clear, the perception that he was ‘cheap’ was not only unfair but also misinformed.

Tom took a firm stand against criticism regarding the team’s financial spending. He was against the misunderstood narrative that the Cubs aren’t financially committed enough to build a championship-potential roster. The Cubs’ payroll ranked seventh in MLB for 2024, just over the $237 million luxury tax threshold. However, Ricketts explained that the Cubs aim to break even every year rather than simply giving away endless funds for player acquisitions. He even mentioned how other clubs have outside resources to boost their funds, “Some teams just have outside resources that are funding their player moves and acquisitions, and that’s really hard to compete with.” He even addressed the issue of fans questioning the funds,” How come you don’t spend like that?’ Because they think somehow we have all these dollars that the Dodgers have or the Mets have or the Yankees have and we just keep it.

Ricketts also explained the Cubs’ recent trade of outfielder Cody Bellinger to the Yankees, indicating that it wasn’t about shedding salary but rather reallocating resources to areas where the team actually needs them, “If we trade Cody Bellinger to get the resources to sign a pitcher, that’s a salary dump. It doesn’t make any sense.” However, despite all the criticism Tom remained confident and was sure that the Cubs would continue to make smart decisions, and would always compete with all their might. He emphasized the team’s goal of making the playoffs consistently saying,” We’re not done yet this offseason.”

Now, as the Chicago Cubs look ahead to the 2025 season, they have already made a series of strategic signings aimed at the purpose of strengthening their squad. Let’s delve deeper.

Chicago Cubs’ strengthen roster with key signings

The most notable additions to the Cubs include veteran right-hander Colin Rea, who joins the rotation with a one-year, $5 million deal, bringing a steady presence to the squad. The Cubs also bolstered their bullpen by adding Caleb Thielbar, a reliable left-handed reliever, on a one-year, $2.75 million contract. These signings reflect the Cubs’ commitment to balancing both pitching and position depth as they prepare for another competitive season.

In addition to these moves, the Cubs made waves on International Signing Day, landing two of the top shortstop prospects in the 2025 class: Juan Cabada, ranked No. 10, and Wilfri De La Cruz, ranked No. 13. These signings further underscore the Cubs’ focus on bolstering their future with high-potential talent. Along with the trade of Miles Mastrobuoni to the Mariners for cash and Cody Bellinger to the Yankees in December, the Cubs are still in the market for further upgrades, particularly in pitching. With a payroll near $200 million for 2025 and the flexibility to make more moves, the Cubs are aiming to fill the voids and deepen their roster.

With key signings and a focus on both immediate needs and future talent, the Cubs are shaping up for a competitive 2025 season. So will these additions be enough to propel the Cubs back into playoff contention and beyond? Only time will tell.