The Chicago Cubs have reportedly stepped back from pursuing a major addition to their pitching arsenal this offseason, bowing out of the race for top-tier free agent Dylan Cease once contract discussions hit the $200 million mark.
Cease, who recently agreed to a seven-year, $210 million deal with the Toronto Blue Jays, had drawn interest from multiple teams, with the Cubs considered a serious contender. However, sources indicate that the team decided the price was too high, choosing to prioritize financial prudence over an aggressive bid.
This move underscores the Cubs’ careful approach to strengthening their pitching rotation while avoiding massive contracts. Team president Jed Hoyer has emphasized that improving pitching remains a top priority, but the organization appears willing to step back when a deal exceeds their comfort zone.
While the Cubs may explore other avenues to enhance their roster — including trades or alternative free-agent signings — the decision to bow out of the Cease sweepstakes highlights a measured strategy in managing their key veteran arsenal for the upcoming 2026 season.
