Cubs’ Tarik Skubal retreat acknowledges overhaul required to compete with Brewers

Reviewing the Brew's Owen Jonas argues that the Chicago Cubs are unlikely to pursue elite free agent pitcher Tarik Skubal due to extensive roster needs. Following a report from The Athletic that Chicago will likely avoid a bidding war for the two-time Cy Young Award winner, the piece highlights that Cubs president Jed Hoyer faces an extensive starting rotation rebuild rather than a single marquee acquisition.

Jonas points out that seven Chicago postseason pitchers, including Shota Imanaga and Kevin Gausman, alongside outfielders Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki, have hit free agency. As a result, the writer asserts Chicago must spread resources across multiple additions rather than signing Skubal to close the competitive gap with the division champion Milwaukee Brewers.