The Chicago Cubs are entering a critical offseason following their 2026 National League Wild Card appearance against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park on September 30. A fan engagement piece from SB Nation's Cubs blog "Bleed Cubbie Blue" asks readers which departing free agent they would most like to see return to the North Side.
Catcher Carson Kelly, who wore number 15, was photographed during the Wild Card game at Petco Park. The 2026 season marked Kelly's tenure with the Cubs after he joined the club as a free agent. His performance behind the plate and at bat will factor into the front office's decisions this winter.
The Cubs' roster construction for 2027 will hinge on several key free agency decisions. Beyond Kelly, the club must evaluate options at multiple positions as they aim to build on their postseason berth. General manager Jed Hoyer and the baseball operations department face a busy offseason balancing payroll flexibility with competitive aspirations in the National League Central.
