After struggling with records of 71-91 in 2021 and 74-88 in 2022, the Cubs rebounded with back-to-back 83-win seasons, indicating a return to contention.

Despite this improvement, the Cubs' offensive performance was lackluster, ranking 12th in runs scored and 21st in home runs, highlighting a need for star power.

To compete effectively, the Cubs require players who can deliver superstar-level production, contrasting sharply with their current roster of solid but unspectacular players.

Fortunately for the Cubs, they can largely retain their 2024 roster, as all starting position players are under contract, including Cody Bellinger, who exercised his player option.

As they look to upgrade, potential trade candidates include Nico Hoerner, Ian Happ, and Jameson Taillon, while they may also explore mid-tier free agents.

However, reports suggest that President Jed Hoyer's strategy is conservative, with the team unlikely to pursue top free agents like Juan Soto or Corbin Burnes, despite the evident need for star talent.

The Cubs' starting rotation, although ranked sixth in ERA, lacks a true ace and is composed of average to good pitchers, mirroring the issues faced by their offense.

Key free agents for the Cubs include Drew Smyly, Yan Gomes, and Christian Bethancourt, with Smyly being the most impactful loss after already signing with another team.

Despite improvements, the 2024 season was viewed as a moderate disappointment, prompting questions about the team's future direction and urgency.

The Cubs are also eyeing younger talent, such as Roki Sasaki from Japan, and may consider trading for established stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. or Rafael Devers, though the latter is seen as unlikely.

Possible fits for the Cubs include pitchers like Max Fried and Nathan Eovaldi, as well as hitters like Anthony Santander and Brent Rooker, to enhance their offensive capabilities.

This cautious approach follows Hoyer's decision to initiate a rebuild in 2021 after the team fell from first place, leading to a less extreme sell-off than in previous years.