🚨CHICAGO CUBS NEWS AND UPDATES: Báez’s Suspension, Crow-Armstrong’s Slump, Tauchman’s Potential Return and More👇

As the Chicago Cubs gear up for the 2026 MLB season, the team is making headlines with several key updates and developments. From new minor league signings to spring training expectations, Cubs fans have a lot to look forward to. Let’s dive into the latest news and notes surrounding the team.

Cubs’ New Minor League Signings: Velasquez and Miller Join the Fold

The Cubs have been busy in the off-season, adding depth to their roster with minor league signings. Vince Velasquez has joined the Cubs organization, bringing with him valuable experience on the mound. He is expected to provide added pitching depth as the Cubs look to strengthen their staff for the upcoming season.

In addition to Velasquez, Owen Miller has officially signed with the team. Miller is expected to contribute to the infield and will help provide depth as the Cubs continue to fill out their roster around the edges. While these moves may not be headline-grabbing, they play an essential role in the Cubs’ goal of building a competitive squad in 2026.

The Báez Saga: Suspension for World Baseball Classic Controversy

Javier Báez, once a fan favorite in Chicago, continues to make waves, but this time it’s for the wrong reasons. According to reports from Michael Cerami of Bleacher Nation, Báez has been suspended from the World Baseball Classic due to a failed drug test. The suspension stems from a drug test he took back in March 2023, and it’s creating some waves as the Cubs prepare for the season.

While Báez was once the face of the Cubs’ infield, it seems that his relationship with the team is now a distant memory. Cubs fans, who once celebrated his highlight-reel plays, may be left to wonder how his future in baseball will unfold amid the suspension and other controversies.

Matt Shaw’s Future with the Cubs: A Likely Stay

In other news, Matt Shaw, the promising young player, seems poised to remain with the Cubs for the time being. With Isiah Kiner-Falefa filling the infield hole for Boston, Shaw’s future with Chicago looks more secure. While Shaw is not yet a household name, he could prove to be an integral part of the Cubs’ roster if he continues to develop and contribute in the coming seasons.

Crow-Armstrong’s Post-All-Star Struggles: Should Cubs Fans Be Concerned?

Pete Crow-Armstrong entered the 2025 season as one of the Cubs’ top prospects, but his performance after the All-Star break raised some concerns. Andres Chavez of North Side Baseball highlights the sharp decline in Crow-Armstrong’s production, leading to questions about his readiness for the major leagues. Should Cubs fans be worried about his future?

While the decline was notable, it’s important to remember that Crow-Armstrong is still young and developing. It’s not uncommon for players to experience growing pains, especially in their early years. That said, the Cubs will need to carefully monitor his progress and adjust their expectations for the young star moving forward.

Mike Tauchman’s Potential Return: A Left-Handed Bat the Cubs Need?

As spring training approaches, there’s talk about the Cubs bringing back outfielder Mike Tauchman. Matthew Trueblood of North Side Baseball makes the case for Tauchman’s return, citing the Cubs’ need for more left-handed at-bats from the outfield and designated hitter positions. Tauchman was a solid contributor during his time with the Cubs and could provide the team with the balance it needs to succeed in 2026.

Tauchman’s return could help solidify the Cubs’ outfield, providing both defensive versatility and much-needed offensive depth. As the team looks to strengthen its roster for the upcoming season, Tauchman’s familiarity with the organization and his ability to contribute in multiple roles could make him an ideal fit.

The Cubs Enter Spring Training with High Expectations

As the Cubs prepare for the official start of spring training in 2026, the excitement is palpable. Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports that the Cubs are entering camp with high expectations, and the team is thrilled about what’s ahead. With the first official workout scheduled for next Wednesday, the Cubs are eager to get started and see how their roster shapes up as they begin their pursuit of postseason success.

The Cubs’ front office, led by general manager Jed Hoyer, has made strategic moves to strengthen the team over the off-season, and now it’s time to see if those moves will pay off. With several young players looking to make their mark and veterans like Tauchman and Shaw expected to contribute, the Cubs are poised for an exciting spring training and an intriguing 2026 season.

Other News Around the Cubs Organization

In off-the-field news, former Cub Michael Hermosillo has joined the Los Angeles Dodgers as a coach. This marks a new chapter for Hermosillo, who once contributed to the Cubs’ outfield depth. Additionally, rumors continue to swirl around Zac Gallen, with many suggesting that he could be on the move this off-season. While the Cubs have not been directly linked to Gallen, his name continues to surface in trade discussions.

Meanwhile, Ryan Brasier is rumored to be headed to Texas, further shaping the landscape of the MLB offseason. With the Cubs continuing to evaluate options to bolster their roster, these moves could have implications for the team as they plan for the future.

Final Thoughts

As the Cubs gear up for the 2026 season, there’s no shortage of storylines and developments to keep fans engaged. From potential trades and signings to the performance of young stars like Crow-Armstrong, this offseason has provided plenty of intrigue. With spring training fast approaching, it will be exciting to see how the Cubs’ roster takes shape and whether they can live up to the high expectations that have been set for the upcoming season.