Navigating the Cubs’ DH Dilemma: Options for a Crucial Offseason Decision
The Chicago Cubs face a pivotal decision this offseason: how too address the designated hitter (DH) position. With Cody Bellinger opting out of his contract after a resurgent season, the Cubs have several paths forward, each with its own risks and rewards. Let’s break down the options, analyzing the potential impact on your team’s 2026 outlook.
The Bellinger Factor & Why this Matters
Bellinger’s 2025 performance was a revelation. He posted a .814 OPS, showcasing offensive power, and provided surprising defensive value with seven Outs Above Average – his best mark since 2020. Crucially, he stayed healthy, appearing in a career-high 152 games. His departure leaves a critically important void in the heart of the lineup.
Filling this spot isn’t simply about finding someone to hit; it’s about maintaining offensive production and navigating potential ripple effects across the roster.
Option 1: Pursue a High-Profile Free Agent – Kyle Tucker
One of the most discussed options is Houston Astros outfielder Kyle tucker. He’s a proven power hitter, but acquiring him won’t be easy or cheap.
* Pros: Tucker brings consistent offensive production and a track record of success.
* Cons: He’ll command a substantial contract, potentially limiting your versatility in addressing other needs. His second-half slump (.207 average, 6 home runs after July 18th) raises questions about consistency.
* Risk Level: Moderate to High. While talented, the cost and potential for regression are significant concerns.
Option 2: Roll the Dice on Seiya Suzuki
Seiya Suzuki is another free agent possibility. He demonstrated remarkable power with 32 home runs and 103 rbis in 2025. Though, his late-season struggles are a red flag.
* Pros: Suzuki offers power potential at a potentially lower cost than Tucker.
* Cons: His defensive limitations (-5 Outs Above Average career) are substantial. His significant drop in production after July 18th (.207 average) is worrisome.
* Risk Level: High. Suzuki’s success hinges on recapturing his first-half form, and his defensive shortcomings are a clear liability.
Option 3: Give a Young Gun a Shot – Internal Candidates
The Cubs boast a promising farm system. Promoting from within could be a cost-effective solution, but it comes with inherent uncertainty.
* Moises Ballesteros (No. 2 Prospect): He showed flashes of brilliance in a limited 2025 audition,hitting .298 with an .868 OPS in 66 plate appearances.is he ready for a full-time role? It’s uncertain.
* Owen Caissie (Top Prospect): caissie has displayed power potential in the minors, but struggled in his brief 2025 MLB stint (.192 average, .568 OPS).
* Kevin Alcántara (No. 5 Prospect): Alcántara’s small sample size is intriguing (.364 average, .781 OPS in 12 plate appearances in 2025), but he’s out of minor league options, potentially forcing the cubs’ hand.
Key Consideration: All three prospects lack significant MLB experience. Relying on them heavily carries considerable risk.
Option 4: The Feel-Good Reunion – Kyle Schwarber
Bringing back Kyle Schwarber would be a popular move with fans. He’s a proven power hitter with a history of success in Chicago, including a key role in the 2016 World Series victory.
* Pros: Schwarber provides immediate offensive impact (56 home runs, 132 RBIs in recent seasons). His familiarity with the organization and city would create a positive atmosphere.
* Cons: He’s primarily a DH at this stage of his career. Acquiring him would likely be expensive. It would create questions about right field and potentially other roster spots.
* Risk Level: Moderate. While Schwar
