The Chicago Cubs' playoff run is over, and the focus has shifted toward the offseason. While there is some time before decisions need to be made, Jed Hoyer and company likely already have the whiteboard filled out with potential scenarios.
Of course, one of the procedural moves that will happen upon the conclusion of the World Series is players electing for free agency. Free agency will be a curious test for the Cubs this offseason, who might be operating with the potential work stoppage after the 2026 season in mind. That could be a reason why the Cubs once again don't spend to the mean that a team in baseball's third-largest market should be at.