IMAGE: Chicago Cubs third base Matt Shaw (6), first base Michael Busch (29), shortstop Dansby Swanson (7), and pitcher Ben Brown (32) shake hands after a victory against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park. / Jordan Godfree / Imagn Images

The Chicago Cubs have been relatively quiet this offseason, but that silence might not last much longer. With the posting window for Japanese right-hander Tatsuya Imai closing this Friday, all signs point to a potential splash in the coming days. Whether it’s Imai or a push for a high-profile name like Alex Bregman, the Cubs are circling two very different-but equally significant-paths to reshape their roster heading into 2026.

And when that move comes-because it feels more like when than if-it’s going to shake up the depth chart. The Cubs still have open spots on the 40-man roster, but any big addition will trigger a ripple effect, especially among fringe players and top prospects. Let’s dig into four names who could find themselves on the outside looking in once Chicago makes its move.

Ben Brown: A Bullpen Arm in Limbo

Ben Brown entered the offseason as a potential breakout bullpen weapon, but the Cubs have been busy reinforcing that group already. With new additions crowding the relief corps, Brown’s path to a major league role is getting narrower by the day.

Now, if the Cubs land Imai, that likely seals Brown’s ticket to Triple-A Iowa to start the season. It’s not necessarily a knock on his talent-Brown has shown the ability to miss bats-but the numbers game is real. The Cubs simply may not need him in the big-league bullpen right away, especially with more proven arms now in the mix.

Javier Assad: A Valuable Arm, But Sliding Down the Ladder

Javier Assad’s situation is a little different. While he’s got a more contact-heavy profile compared to Brown, the Cubs appear to be cooling on what he brings to the rotation or bullpen long-term. His omission from the playoff roster was telling.

That said, Assad still holds value thanks to his remaining minor league options. He’s a flexible piece, and that’s always useful over the course of a long season.

But if another starter is added-especially one with top-of-the-rotation upside-Assad likely gets pushed further down the depth chart. He’s still in the picture, just not front and center.

Scott Kingery: The Utility Role May Be Spoken For

Scott Kingery is currently penciled in as the Cubs’ Swiss Army knife off the bench, but that role could vanish quickly if the team brings in Bregman. Why? Because Bregman’s arrival would likely shift Matt Shaw into a utility role, and Shaw’s upside gives him the edge.

Even if Bregman doesn’t land in Chicago, the Cubs are expected to make another move that could impact Kingery’s standing. He’s a versatile player with experience, but he’s also the kind of depth piece who can be stashed in the minors when roster spots get tight.

Moises Ballesteros: A Prospect With Trade Value

Moises Ballesteros isn’t in danger of losing a roster spot in the traditional sense-he’s one of the Cubs’ top prospects and a name that excites scouts. But if the Cubs do go big, especially with a Bregman signing, a trade for a cost-controlled starting pitcher could follow. And Ballesteros would be one of the first names other teams ask about.

The Cubs aren’t necessarily eager to move him, but they know it’ll take real talent to get real talent. Ballesteros could be part of that equation. He’s a bat-first catcher with upside, and that makes him a valuable chip in any serious trade talks.

So while the Cubs haven’t made their move just yet, the groundwork is clearly being laid. Whether it’s a splashy signing, a strategic trade, or both, the roster is about to shift-and when it does, players like Brown, Assad, Kingery, and Ballesteros could find themselves in very different positions than they are today.

Stay tuned. The quiet part of the Cubs’ offseason may be just about over.