Cubs' Crucial 2025 Season: Balancing High Expectations and Playoff Ambitions

As the Chicago Cubs gear up for the 2025 MLB season, they aim to leverage a revamped roster and strategic acquisitions to secure a playoff spot after a challenging rebuild.

The Chicago Cubs are entering the 2025 MLB season with a clear goal: to return to the playoffs for the first time in five years. After a series of strategic moves in the offseason, the team is poised to capitalize on what they believe is their competitive window.

Roster Revamp and High Stakes

The Cubs have made significant changes to their roster, highlighted by the acquisition of outfielder Kyle Tucker. Tucker's arrival signals a shift in the team's strategy, aiming to bolster their offensive capabilities. "You don't make a trade for Kyle Tucker if you don't feel like you have a really strong team going into that year," said General Manager Carter Hawkins.

Projections and Expectations

Projection systems are optimistic about the Cubs' chances, with win estimates ranging from 87 to 90 games. This positions them as a strong contender in the National League Central. Manager Craig Counsell emphasized the importance of high expectations: "It should feel like this all the time. From that perspective, it makes me happy that we have high expectations."

Key Players to Watch

The Cubs' success will hinge on the performance of their star players. Dansby Swanson and Nico Hoerner will be critical, especially with their health concerns from the previous season. The outfield also looks promising with Ian Happ and emerging star Pete Crow-Armstrong.

Bullpen and Closing Strategy

Improving the bullpen is a top priority after the team blew six games leading into the ninth inning last season. The addition of experienced pitchers like Ryan Pressly aims to stabilize late-game situations. "When you pitch in those situations, your team is like 10 minutes away from a win," noted Counsell.

The Road Ahead

With a mix of veteran leadership and young talent, the Cubs are primed for a significant leap forward. The 2025 season will be a true test of the team's resilience and strategic vision, with the ultimate goal of playing deep into October.

Join the conversation and follow the Cubs' journey as they aim to reclaim their spot in the MLB postseason.

What to Read Next

Aaron Boone's Tough Decision: Choosing the AL's All-Star Game Starting Pitcher Among Skubal, Fried, deGrom, and Crochet
MLB

Aaron Boone's Tough Decision: Choosing the AL's All-Star Game Starting Pitcher Among Skubal, Fried, deGrom, and Crochet

Yankees manager Aaron Boone faces a challenging decision in selecting the American League's starting pitcher for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, with top contenders like Skubal, Fried, deGrom, and Crochet in the mix.

MLB Trade Deadline 2025: Key Additions for Every Contender
MLB

MLB Trade Deadline 2025: Key Additions for Every Contender

Explore the potential trade deadline moves for every MLB contender in 2025, with key additions that could shape the playoff race.

MLB Fantasy Surprises: Springer’s Comeback, Phillies’ Pitching Dominance, and Angels’ Power Surge
MLB

MLB Fantasy Surprises: Springer’s Comeback, Phillies’ Pitching Dominance, and Angels’ Power Surge

Explore the latest MLB fantasy surprises, including George Springer’s resurgence, Phillies’ top pitchers, and the Angels’ home run power.

Blockbuster MLB Trades: Imagining the Unthinkable for Paul Skenes, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Byron Buxton
MLB

Blockbuster MLB Trades: Imagining the Unthinkable for Paul Skenes, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Byron Buxton

Explore hypothetical blockbuster trades for MLB stars Paul Skenes, Ronald Acuña Jr., and Byron Buxton, analyzing potential deals and their impact on teams.

The Evolution of Catchers in MLB: How Rule Changes Are Reshaping the Position
MLB

The Evolution of Catchers in MLB: How Rule Changes Are Reshaping the Position

Explore how MLB's 2023 rule changes are transforming the catcher position, focusing on the rise of dual-threat players like Luke Stevenson.

2025 MLB All-Star Break Power Rankings: Teams to Watch and Rising Stars
MLB

2025 MLB All-Star Break Power Rankings: Teams to Watch and Rising Stars

Explore the latest MLB Power Rankings as teams gear up for the 2025 All-Star Break, highlighting top performers and emerging stars.

2025 MLB Midseason Report: Team Grades, Surprises, and Disappointments
MLB

2025 MLB Midseason Report: Team Grades, Surprises, and Disappointments

Explore the midseason grades for all 30 MLB teams in 2025, highlighting top performers, surprising teams, and major disappointments.

MLB Second-Half Schedule Analysis: Key Players and Teams to Watch
MLB

MLB Second-Half Schedule Analysis: Key Players and Teams to Watch

Explore the MLB second-half schedule to identify key players and teams that could impact your fantasy baseball season.

2025 MLB Midseason Relief Pitcher Review: Standouts, Struggles, and Surprises
MLB

2025 MLB Midseason Relief Pitcher Review: Standouts, Struggles, and Surprises

A comprehensive look at the top relief pitchers in the 2025 MLB season, highlighting standout performances, unexpected struggles, and fantasy baseball implications.

Brandon Woodruff's Stellar Comeback: A Game-Changer for Fantasy Baseball
MLB

Brandon Woodruff's Stellar Comeback: A Game-Changer for Fantasy Baseball

Brandon Woodruff's return to the mound signals a potential game-changer for fantasy baseball enthusiasts. Discover why he's a must-add in your league.

Unforgettable MLB Trade Stories: From Funerals to Family Events
MLB

Unforgettable MLB Trade Stories: From Funerals to Family Events

Discover the wildest and most unforgettable MLB trade stories, from deals made at funerals to trades negotiated during family events.

Washington Nationals' Major Overhaul: Impact on MLB Draft and Trade Deadline Strategies
MLB

Washington Nationals' Major Overhaul: Impact on MLB Draft and Trade Deadline Strategies

Explore how the Washington Nationals' recent front-office changes influence their No. 1 draft pick and trade deadline strategies, with insights from MLB experts.

2025 MLB All-Star Game: Key Snubs, Surprises, and Player Insights
MLB

2025 MLB All-Star Game: Key Snubs, Surprises, and Player Insights

Explore the 2025 MLB All-Star Game rosters, highlighting key snubs, surprising picks, and in-depth player analysis.

Unlikely Heroes: The Most Obscure MLB All-Stars in History
MLB

Unlikely Heroes: The Most Obscure MLB All-Stars in History

Explore the fascinating stories of the most obscure MLB All-Stars, from World War II fill-ins to unexpected modern-day selections like Hunter Goodman.

2025 MLB Midseason Report: Top Performers and Playoff Prospects
MLB

2025 MLB Midseason Report: Top Performers and Playoff Prospects

A comprehensive look at the 2025 MLB midseason, highlighting top performers, team MVPs, and playoff prospects for all 30 teams.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.