Chicago Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer had a long, wide-ranging conversation recently on a podcast. While Hoyer didn’t reveal every detail, it certainly provided valuable context to the Cubs’ ongoing strategy. When asked about the Cubs’ remaining offseason plans, Hoyer outlined that the team’s focus is primarily on bolstering the bench and reinforcing the bullpen.

Although the president expressed satisfaction with the existing squad, he stressed that the Cubs are still assessing the trade and free-agent markets and admitted that there is always space for improvement. Hoyer stated that the Cubs may continue to play through spring training, they are not yet finished. The objective? To add to the team’s strengths and guarantee depth for the upcoming lengthy season, not to make huge, showy signings. In the course of the conversation, Hoyer also disclosed his greatest regret. 

Jed Hoyer still thinks Kyle Schwarber should have been a Cub

On David Kaplan’s REKAP podcast, Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer didn’t hold back, especially when discussing one of the most talked-about moves in recent Cubs history: non-tendering Kyle Schwarber. “The obvious one as I look back was non-tendering Schwarber,” Hoyer noted, admitting, “We just didn’t have any money after Covid. I had to cut money and that was the move we had to make. I look back on that one and it just feels like we were right about the player. In the end, we were right. We ran out of time and patience and money.” 

“I feel like he should be a Cub.” It’s a gut punch for Cubs fans, especially considering Schwarber’s love for Chicago and how the move boiled down to a mere $10 million, a sum that feels minuscule in hindsight given what Schwarber has become—a cornerstone of the Phillies’ offense. And it’s funny, in a bittersweet way, that Hoyer’s comments about Schwarber are coming up right now—just after the Cubs failed to reach an agreement with Kyle Tucker on his 2025 salary. It’s almost like a cruel reminder of the same financial tightrope Hoyer was walking years ago with Schwarber. But in Tucker’s case there, we may finally have some good news. 

For at least this season, Tucker will be with the club

Kyle Tucker and the Cubs agreed to a one-year contract worth $16.5 million for the 2025 season on Thursday, avoiding arbitration. Tucker will be able to enjoy Cubs Con this weekend at the Sheraton Grand Chicago since the resolution was made in time. Now that he is 28 years old, Tucker can concentrate on helping the Cubs push for the postseason without having to worry about contract controversy. 

In exchange for Isaac Paredes, pitcher Hayden Wesneski, and prospect Cam Smith, the Cubs made a big statement on December 13 when they acquired Kyle Tucker from the Astros. It was a risky move, and the outfield had to be moved in order to make room for Tucker. The Cubs traded Cody Bellinger to the Yankees in order to clear salary and relieve the outfield snag. Although Bellinger’s exit wasn’t simple, it was a calculated move to create space for Tucker, who they anticipate will play a significant role both this season and in the future. 

For at least this season, Tucker will be sporting a Cubs uniform, but his future beyond 2025 remains uncertain. Barring a potential extension, Tucker is set to hit free agency after the year, making this season crucial for both him and the team. As the Cubs look to contend, Tucker’s presence in the outfield could be a key piece of their playoff aspirations—while also setting the stage for what could be a pivotal year in his career.