Why Chicago Cubs Should Not Entertain Bringing Back Veteran Reliever

The Chicago Cubs have faced four consecutive seasons without playoff appearances, including a disappointing 2024 season. As the team heads into a pivotal offseason, management will need to make critical decisions regarding the roster. A major question is whether to bring back veteran reliever Drew Smyly.

Smyly signed a two-year, $19 million contract before the 2023 season, with a mutual option for $10 million in 2025. However, given his recent performance and age (35), many believe the Cubs should not pick up his option, even though Smyly is likely to opt in.

Since joining the Cubs, Smyly has transitioned to the bullpen but has been a mediocre performer. In 2023, after struggling as a starter, he moved to relief and finished with a 5.00 ERA in 41 appearances (23 starts). In 2024, he made 50 appearances—his most in over a decade—without any starts, yet his production remained below expectations.

With the Cubs looking to rebuild and move into a new era, re-signing Smyly might hinder progress, especially as the team needs to invest in younger, more impactful players. Retaining Smyly would likely signal to fans that the Cubs are satisfied with their recent underwhelming results, which many believe should not be the case.