Bellinger staying with Cubs

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Nov. 2: With Bellinger returning, here are the Cubs' biggest offseason needs
After missing the playoffs in four straight seasons and finishing with identical 83-79 records in each of the past two years, the Cubs will be looking to take a step forward in 2025, but they have a lot of work to do this offseason.

While first baseman/outfielder Cody Bellinger has decided to pick up his player option for 2025, addressing a lineup that ranked 12th in the Majors in runs scored (736) and tied for 20th in homers (170) still figures to be a priority for the Cubs.

The team could also look to add an impact arm to fill the vacancy in its rotation left by veteran Kyle Hendricks, who is a free agent.

That said, Bellinger's decision to remain with the club could limit Chicago's financial flexibility. Bellinger is owed $27.5 million in 2025, the second year of the three-year, $80 million pact he signed with the Cubs last spring. He will have another chance to opt out ahead of the 2026 season, when he's due to earn $25 million.

Read more about the biggest offseason questions facing the Cubs here.