Cubs have money to spend but Ken Rosenthal still sees a painful gap with Dodgers and Mets

Ken Rosenthal reported on Foul Territory that while the Chicago Cubs have financial flexibility this offseason, their spending will not rival the Los Angeles Dodgers or New York Mets. Despite having nearly $100 million coming off their payroll, the Cubs are unlikely to match the aggressive pursuit of elite free agents expected from baseball's biggest spenders.

Cubbies Crib writer Jordan Campbell argues it is unrealistic to view the Cubs as serious contenders for top starting pitcher Tarik Skubal. Campbell believes high-level bidding often surpasses Chicago's comfort level, leaving them behind market leaders despite their payroll space.