Chicago Cubs Not Done Making Moves, Now A Top Suitor for Big Free Agent

The Chicago Cubs won the Edward Cabrera sweepstakes this week, landing the sought-after Miami Marlins starter, beating out a number of interested clubs. So what's next for the Cubbies? According to insider Jon Morosi, there's a notable free agent bat that could be next on their docket. He says they are one of two finalists for Alex Bregman.

What's next for the Cubs this offseason after trading for RHP Edward Cabrera?

“The one free agent bat that they remain linked to: Alex Bregman.” - @jonmorosi pic.twitter.com/m7Vjb1jkl9
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) January 8, 2026

“The Cubs are not done yet. And the one free agent bat that they remain linked to: Alex Bregman," said Morosi.

"I do believe that the two strongest suitors right now for Bregman are the Cubs and the (Boston) Red Sox. I do not have an indication right now that the Tigers are in at the same level as the Cubs or Red Sox."

Matt Shaw took over the third base duties for the Cubs this past season, and the youngster did well, though without the power profile that usually accompanies a player at the hot corner. Morosi suggests that if they were to land Bregman, they could either trade Nico Hoerner and move Shaw to 2B, or simply have Shaw play more of a "super utility role."

"The appeal of having Bregman in the middle of that lineup, especially with Tucker likely headed elsewhere, becomes a real interesting decision for the Cubs.

"If there's a big bat coming to the North Side, I believe the best opportunity for them will be Alex Bregman."

The Red Sox desperately want Bregman back as well, as he became an instant leader in their clubhouse and on the field in 2025, in his first year in Beantown.

He played only 114 games due to injuries, but still hit 18 homers and posted an .821 OPS.