Cubs rumors: 3 final free agents Jed Hoyer must sign

3) Cubs rumors: The bullpen could use a couple of arms

The Cubs bullpen has the potential to be good. It could also turn into a complete disaster. A few of the guys in there had nice seasons in 2022. Brandon Hughes could be a sneaky-good closer for them.

Hoyer has brought in Brad Boxberger to help supply them with a veteran arm. It’s a different look than last year’s bullpen when it included guys like David Robertson, Chris Martin, and Mychal Givens. All three were traded at the deadline. With several good relievers still out there, the Cubs should look to at least get a head start on building what could be an even better relief corps for the 2024 season when things will really matter.

One guy who might fit in very well for them is Michael Fulmer. He has closer experience and could be an option for them over Hughes in the ninth. Andrew Chafin is a bit older than Fulmer although many fans would welcome him back if the Cubs were to go out and sign him.

Frankly, it doesn’t matter who it is the Cubs sign as long as they fortify things a little further. Signing someone like Will Smith gives them a player to trade in July if things don’t look promising. A younger player like Matt Wisler is worth a second year. The Cubs need to look at the big picture. That image is of a competitive club in 2023 and a very good one in 2024.