Chicago Cubs News and Notes — Hoerner, PCA, Ricketts: What’s Next for the Cubs in 2026?

As the 2026 MLB season approaches, the Chicago Cubs have a lot of moving pieces, both on the field and off, as they continue to work towards their goal of contending for a World Series. From Nico Hoerner continuing to develop into one of the team’s core players, to the future of Pete Crow-Armstrong (PCA) possibly arriving in the big leagues, and even the leadership of Tom Ricketts guiding the direction of the franchise, there’s plenty of excitement brewing in the Windy City. Let’s dive deeper into some of the biggest updates and expectations surrounding the Cubs for 2026.

Nico Hoerner: Cementing His Role as a Key Contributor

Nico Hoerner has made quite a name for himself over the past couple of years, and there’s every indication that he’s going to be a vital piece of the Cubs’ infield for years to come. After breaking out as a dependable, all-around player, Hoerner has proven he can hit for average, play solid defense, and contribute both offensively and in the field. As the Cubs enter 2026, Hoerner is expected to continue playing a crucial role in the middle of the lineup.

Over the offseason, Hoerner worked on refining his approach at the plate, focusing on improving his power numbers without sacrificing the consistency that has made him a reliable table-setter for the Cubs. Fans will be looking for him to not only improve his batting average but also add more pop to his bat as the team looks to generate more offense.

His versatility in the field has also made him a key asset for the Cubs. Whether at second base or shortstop, Hoerner’s ability to contribute defensively will continue to be critical as the Cubs rely on him to provide stability in the infield.

Pete Crow-Armstrong (PCA): The Cubs’ Future Center Fielder?

One of the most highly anticipated storylines for the Cubs in 2026 is the development of Pete Crow-Armstrong (PCA). The center fielder has quickly become one of the most exciting prospects in the Cubs’ farm system, and his potential to crack the MLB roster sooner rather than later has Cubs fans buzzing.

PCA made a name for himself with his elite defense and strong bat-to-ball skills, but it’s his ability to play center field that has people most excited. His glove is expected to be MLB-ready, and his overall athleticism could allow him to develop into one of the top outfielders in the league.

The question for the Cubs is whether PCA will be promoted in 2026. With the team’s outfield currently consisting of some established players and a few open spots for younger talent, PCA could get a chance to showcase his skills in the big leagues sooner than expected. His development in 2025 will be one of the most watched storylines in Cubs camp, and if he continues to show growth in his bat and overall approach, he could be a key player for the Cubs this season.

Ricketts’ Vision: Stability and Growth for the Future

As the owner of the Cubs, Tom Ricketts’ leadership continues to shape the team’s future. His vision for the team has centered on long-term success through a blend of veteran leadership and homegrown talent. The Cubs have built an exciting young core, and Ricketts’ willingness to invest in the team’s future is evident in the moves made by the front office, including the recent signing of key free agents and the development of prospects within the farm system.

Ricketts has shown a willingness to spend when necessary, but also a commitment to making calculated decisions that ensure the Cubs’ future remains bright. In 2026, the Cubs will likely continue to focus on developing their younger players, while also adding experienced veterans who can contribute both on the field and in the clubhouse.

With the team looking to return to postseason contention, Ricketts’ leadership will be crucial in balancing the Cubs’ spending power and managing their roster to ensure sustained success. If the Cubs are to return to the World Series, Ricketts will need to continue to be hands-on, especially when it comes to making difficult decisions that could impact the team’s long-term future.

The Cubs’ Bullpen and Overall Team Chemistry

One of the most important aspects of the Cubs’ roster heading into 2026 will be the bullpen. As Jordan Bastian from MLB.com reported earlier this offseason, the Cubs have undergone some significant turnover in the bullpen, with new acquisitions and key players stepping into important roles. While the starting rotation looks solid with young arms continuing to develop, the bullpen will be a critical area to monitor, as the team looks to close out games and provide stability in high-leverage situations.

Manager David Ross and pitching coach Tommy Hottovy will have their work cut out for them as they try to put together a consistent bullpen that can get the Cubs through the season. With the rise of young prospects and the continued development of their top arms, the bullpen could be one of the team’s biggest strengths in 2026.

Additionally, the overall team chemistry will be key to the Cubs’ success in 2026. With a mix of veteran leadership, like Dansby Swanson and Ian Happ, and young talent such as Hoerner and PCA, the team will need to come together to produce consistent results. Building team chemistry and ensuring everyone is on the same page will be critical as the Cubs attempt to make a serious push for the postseason.

Cubs Farm System: Rising Stars on the Horizon

While much of the focus will be on the MLB roster, the Cubs’ farm system remains a critical piece of their long-term plans. As Keith Law from The Athletic mentioned earlier, the Cubs have an impressive collection of talent in their minor league system, and several players could soon be making an impact at the big league level.

From pitchers like Ben Brown and Caleb Kilian to infielders like Matt Shaw and James Triantos, the Cubs have several young stars waiting in the wings. These prospects, combined with the continued development of PCA, will help shape the future of the Cubs in the coming years. The Cubs’ front office has placed a heavy emphasis on building a deep, talent-rich farm system that will help ensure the team remains competitive for years to come.

Conclusion: A Promising Future for the Cubs

As the 2026 MLB season approaches, the Chicago Cubs have a lot to look forward to. With Nico Hoerner continuing to grow into a key player, the potential of PCA, the leadership of Tom Ricketts, and a solid bullpen in the works, there is optimism surrounding the team’s future. With the right mix of young talent and veteran leadership, the Cubs could be poised for a successful season, and possibly make a push for the postseason. Fans can expect another exciting chapter in the Cubs’ rebuilding process, and with key players continuing to develop, the future looks bright for Chicago.