The Chicago Cubs are reportedly making moves to bolster their offense for the 2025 season. With a core of talented players already in place, the Cubs are now targeting a big bat to add power to their lineup. According to recent rumors, the Cubs are in discussions about potentially trading for outfielders like Juan Soto of the San Diego Padres and Randy Arozarena of the Tampa Bay Rays. While these talks are still in the early stages, the Cubs’ front office has made it clear they are actively looking to strengthen their offense.
The Cubs’ interest in Soto and Arozarena is not surprising given their need for a dynamic power hitter to complement their existing roster. With names like Nico Hoerner, Seiya Suzuki, and Patrick Wisdom already anchoring the lineup, the Cubs are now seeking another reliable offensive weapon to help them compete in the competitive NL Central. Both Soto and Arozarena are proven run producers who would add a significant boost to Chicago’s chances in 2025.
Juan Soto, one of the most exciting young hitters in baseball, is certainly the marquee name on the Cubs’ radar. The 26-year-old outfielder is a perennial MVP candidate and has been a force for the Padres since being traded from Washington in 2022. With his combination of power, plate discipline, and ability to get on base, Soto would provide an immediate upgrade to any lineup. His potential arrival in Chicago would be a game-changer for a team looking to solidify its place in the postseason picture.
However, acquiring Soto is no easy task. The Padres, who are also looking to compete for a championship, are unlikely to part with their star player without a substantial return. As one of the most coveted players in baseball, Soto would command a significant trade package, likely including top-tier prospects and possibly even major league-ready talent. For the Cubs, it would be a costly but potentially rewarding move that could pay off in the long run if they’re able to land the young slugger.
While Soto represents the ultimate dream acquisition, Randy Arozarena is another intriguing option for the Cubs. Known for his clutch performances in the postseason and his ability to hit for both power and average, Arozarena would provide the Cubs with a versatile offensive weapon. The 28-year-old has been a breakout star for the Rays, and his consistency at the plate makes him an attractive target for Chicago.
Arozarena’s left-handed bat would also be a great fit in the Cubs’ lineup, adding balance to their predominantly right-handed group. He brings speed on the base paths, solid defense in the outfield, and a penchant for delivering in big moments. If the Cubs are able to pull off a trade for Arozarena, they’d acquire a player who can contribute both offensively and defensively, while also bringing a playoff-tested mentality to the team.
One of the key factors in these trade discussions will be the Cubs’ willingness to part with some of their top prospects. Chicago’s farm system has produced some exciting talent in recent years, including Pete Crow-Armstrong, Brennen Davis, and Matt Mervis. These players are highly regarded, but acquiring a player like Soto or Arozarena could be worth the price, particularly if it means putting the Cubs in a better position to contend for a World Series title.
The Cubs are likely to have to give up a significant package of young talent, but it could be a calculated risk for the front office. With a relatively young team, Chicago may be willing to make these moves in order to make a push for the postseason now, rather than waiting for prospects to fully develop. This aggressive approach could signal that the Cubs are ready to go all-in for 2025.
Despite having a solid roster, the Cubs’ offense has sometimes lacked consistency, particularly in terms of power. While they have some key contributors, such as Ian Happ and Dansby Swanson, the team would greatly benefit from a reliable power bat to anchor the middle of their lineup. Soto and Arozarena are both capable of hitting for power while also being patient at the plate, which is exactly what the Cubs need to add balance to their offense.
The Cubs’ front office knows that a strong offensive presence is essential to keeping pace with division rivals like the St. Louis Cardinals and Milwaukee Brewers, who have potent lineups of their own. Adding another impact hitter would not only help the Cubs compete within the division but also give them a fighting chance against top teams in the National League.
While acquiring a star like Soto or Arozarena would be a major coup for the Cubs, it also comes with financial implications. Soto is still under team control for the 2025 season and would likely seek a lucrative long-term extension, which could significantly impact the Cubs’ payroll. Arozarena, on the other hand, is under contract for a few more years, which might make him a more affordable option in terms of both trade cost and salary.
The Cubs are currently working with a moderate payroll flexibility, which means that making such a trade would require careful financial planning. If they can create space through trades or other moves, the Cubs could absorb a sizable contract for a player like Soto or Arozarena. The team will need to ensure they have enough room to pursue other free-agent additions or extensions for their core players while making a big trade.
While Soto and Arozarena are the main names linked to the Cubs, other options are available on the trade market. Players like Willie Calhoun from the Texas Rangers or Michael Conforto from the San Francisco Giants could be more affordable options for the Cubs if they choose to go in a different direction. These alternatives could help the Cubs achieve their goal of adding a power bat without the same level of cost or risk as acquiring Soto or Arozarena.
However, the Cubs are likely aiming for a high-impact move that could immediately elevate their chances of winning the division and making a deep playoff run. Whether they land one of the top-tier targets or explore secondary options, adding another power hitter is a top priority for Chicago this offseason.
If the Cubs can pull off a trade for one of these star outfielders, it would greatly enhance their chances of contention in 2025. Soto or Arozarena would provide immediate impact, while also giving the Cubs a boost for the long term. Adding a proven power hitter to an already talented lineup would give Chicago the offensive firepower it needs to compete with the best teams in the National League.
Beyond the trade, the Cubs are still looking to solidify their pitching staff and add depth to their bullpen. However, an upgrade in the outfield would likely be the centerpiece of their offseason efforts.
The Cubs have made it clear that they are ready to contend in 2025, and acquiring a big bat would signal their commitment to competing at the highest level. This aggressive pursuit of Soto or Arozarena reflects the Cubs’ desire to build a well-rounded team capable of making a postseason run.
With their sights set on a championship, the Cubs are working to create a roster that can challenge the top teams in the league. Whether or not they land Soto, Arozarena, or another power hitter, the Cubs are clearly focused on making their team as strong as possible for the upcoming season.