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Cubs face key decisions on free agent pitchers this offseason

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 16, 2026, 12:00 PM

Last updated Oct 16, 2026

Cubs face key decisions on free agent pitchers this offseason

Summary

As of October 16, 2026, the Chicago Cubs are preparing for the offseason with multiple pitchers entering free agency. Shota Imanaga, who has been a regular in the rotation, posted an 11-10 record with a 3.77 ERA this season, but his tendency to allow home runs complicates his future. Kevin Gausman, acquired at the trade deadline, had a mixed impact and is not expected to return. David Peterson improved after joining the Cubs, making his return more likely, while Aaron Civale has proven to be valuable, featuring prominently despite being under-the-radar. The Cubs must navigate these decisions carefully as pitching remains a high-priority need.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Shota Imanaga had a solid season but struggled with home runs.
•Kevin Gausman, viewed as a rental, may not re-sign.
•David Peterson showed improvement and could be re-signed.
•Aaron Civale has performed well when called upon.
•Cubs face critical decisions on free agent pitchers this offseason.

Latest Updates

12:00 PMYahoo Sports — Which 2026 Cubs’ Pitchers Are Entering Free Agency?

What they're saying

"
Chicago's offseason is underway, and the Cubs' free agent pitchers could tell the story. Multiple key pitchers are set to enter free agency. Looking at the Cubs' players with options, the list gets longer. However, since that is hard to predict right now, we will focus strictly on the pitchers entering free agency. Minor League …
— Yahoo Sports

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