As of Wednesday, December 31, 2025, the “shocking” rumor of Mark Prior returning to the North Side has reached a fever pitch.

While social media is indeed “ablaze” with the idea of the 2003 phenom returning to Wrigley Field to redefine the Cubs’ pitching strategy, a look at the current 2026 coaching rosters reveals a story of organizational stability rather than a dramatic “comeback.”

Here is the “surgical” breakdown of why this rumor is captivating fans—and where the Cubs’ coaching staff actually stands as the new year begins.

1. The Current Reality: Tommy Hottovy Remains at the Helm

Despite the excitement surrounding a potential Prior return, the Chicago Cubs’ official 2026 coaching staff, led by manager Craig Counsell, is already locked in.

The Incumbent: Tommy Hottovy is entering his eighth season as the Cubs’ pitching coach. He has been a staple of the organization’s “run prevention” philosophy and has the full backing of Counsell and the front office.

The Staff Support: The Cubs recently finalized their 2026 staff with Casey Jacobson serving as the assistant pitching coach and Mark Strittmatter as the bullpen coach.2 There are currently no vacant “high-level” pitching positions on the major league roster.

2. Mark Prior’s Current Status: A Dynasty in LA

The reason this rumor “shocks” the baseball world is because Mark Prior is currently arguably the most successful pitching coach in the game—just not in Chicago.

The Dodgers Anchor: Prior has served as the Los Angeles Dodgers’ pitching coach since 2020.3 Under his guidance, the Dodgers just won their third World Series title (2020, 2024, 2025) since he joined the staff.4

A “Lifetime” Connection: While Prior will always be a “legendary figure” at Wrigley, he has built a coaching dynasty in Los Angeles. There has been no official indication from the Dodgers or Prior himself that he is looking to leave a perennial championship contender for a lateral move to Chicago.

3. 2026 Cubs Pitching Leadership

Role Coach Status

Pitching Coach Tommy Hottovy Returning (8th Season)

Assistant Pitching Coach Casey Jacobson Returning (Promoted in 2025)

Bullpen Coach Mark Strittmatter Returning

Manager Craig Counsell Signed through 2028

The Verdict: Nostalgia vs. Strategy

While the idea of Mark Prior returning to mentor rising stars like Cade Horton and Ben Brown is a “dream scenario” for many fans, it remains—for now—an offseason fantasy. The Cubs have prioritized continuity under Craig Counsell, and Prior remains the architect of the Dodgers’ pitching dominance.

The “spark” that propels Chicago back into playoff contention in 2026 is more likely to come from their recent acquisitions—like the return of Shota Imanaga and the trade for Kyle Tucker—than from a change in the coaching dugout.