{
  "id": 11260129,
  "title": "Why Cubs' biggest priority in offseason is not their beloved free agent outfielders",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/01/why-cubs-biggest-priority-in-offseason-is-not-their-beloved-free",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-01T19:10:42.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/why-cubs-biggest-priority-offseason-191042991.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Chicago Cubs' primary focus for the upcoming offseason is not their beloved free agent outfielders, as initially assumed. Instead, ESPN's Jesse Rogers asserts that the team's biggest issues lie in rebuilding their pitching staff, which includes both the rotation and bullpen. While the Cubs undoubtedly need more outfield help, they have sufficient depth in the position to cover for Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki, who are likely to leave via free agency. The 2026 MLB season saw the departure of several key pitchers, making it crucial for the Cubs to address their pitching needs. They are expected to explore various options, including free agents like Tarik Skubal, Michael King, and Michael Pivetta, as well as potential trades involving names like Hunter Brown, Joe Ryan, and Sandy Alcantara. Starting pitching and bullpen reinforcements will be essential for the Cubs in the coming winter.",
  "summary": "The top priority for the Cubs after elimination has nothing to do with their outfield.",
  "key_points": [
    "Cubs prioritize rebuilding pitching staff over free agent outfielders",
    "2026 season saw departure of key pitchers, highlighting need",
    "Cubs expected to explore free agents and trades for pitching reinforcements"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}