The Chicago Cubs won 83 games in 2024 but missed the postseason after finishing in third place in the National League Central. They came into this offseason with some questions to answer.
However, they have already gotten to work and made a key trade to bolster their bullpen. According to Jeff Passan of ESPN, the Cubs have acquired right-hander Eli Morgan from the Cleveland Guardians.
"The Chicago Cubs are acquiring right-handed reliever Eli Morgan in a trade with the Cleveland Guardians, sources tell ESPN," Passan tweeted. "Morgan was 3-0 with a 1.93 ERA last season and has a 3.23 career ERA in 173 innings as a relief pitcher."
In a corresponding move, the Cubs have designated slugger Patrick Wisdom for assignment. Wisdom hit just .171 with eight home runs, 23 RBI, and an ugly .629 OPS. Jesse Rogers was first to the news about this move.
Wisdom had some good years with the Cubs, but his time with the organization is likely over. On the other hand, the Cubs are picking up a reliable reliever from the Guardians that should help bolster their bullpen.
So far, it appears as though the Cubs have their sights set on contending in 2025. Morgan pitched in several high-leverage spots for the Guardians, especially during their run to the American League Championship Series.
It will certainly be interesting to see what else the Cubs decide to do this offseason, but this could be their first step in trying to build a contender for 2025.
They'll have a tall task on their hands to take down the Milwaukee Brewers, but the move to acquire Morgan certainly bolsters their bullpen and improves their roster for next season.
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