The Chicago Cubs may be playing the waiting game as they monitor Japanese pitching star Tatsuya Imai, with reports indicating the Cubs and Yankees are finalists for his services. On the CHGO Cubs Related, hosted by Corey Freedman and Brendan Miller, the crew debates whether the front office is holding off on a major financial commitment until after the New Year, as Imai’s January 2 decision deadline approaches. With the Cubs’ 40-man roster still flexible and five open spots even after signing Tyler Austin to an MLB contract, we discuss how this impacts the roster around core players like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Ian Happ, and the direction set by GM Craig Counsell. Are bigger Cubs moves still on the way once Imai makes his decision?

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The Chicago Cubs remain quiet in MLB free agency as reports indicate reliever Brad Keller is closing in on a multi-year deal with the Philadelphia Phillies. On the CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosts Luke Stuckmeyer and Joey Christopoulos break down what Keller’s impending signing means for the Cubs bullpen and why Chicago has yet to make a major move. The show also dives into new rumors that the Arizona Diamondbacks have emerged as a surprise entrant in the Alex Bregman sweepstakes, including the financial flexibility a potential Ketel Marte move could create and the possibility of shifting Jordan Lawlar to second base. Get the latest Cubs rumors, MLB free agency news, and in-depth offseason analysis.

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The Chicago Cubs are re-signing left-handed reliever Caleb Thielbar after a strong 2024 season, sources tell CHGO and Jeff Passan. Thielbar, 38, posted a 2.64 ERA in 67 games, providing a steady and reliable lefty presence in the Cubs bullpen last year. On the CHGO Cubs Podcast, hosted by Luke Stuckmeyer, Joey Christopoulos, and Justin Roman, we break down why this move matters, how Thielbar fits alongside newcomer Hoby Milner, and what it means for Chicago’s pitching depth. The deal is pending a physical as the Cubs continue to shape their bullpen for the upcoming season.

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