Chicago Cubs 2026 Season Preview: Odds, Predictions, Strengths and Weaknesses
Chicago has produced three consecutive winning seasons and remains one of the favourites in the National League Central heading into the new campaign.
Cubs odds for the 2026 season reflect a club that should once again contend for the division title and a postseason berth. After defeating San Diego in the Wild Card round last year before falling to Milwaukee in the NLDS, Chicago is looking to take another step forward.
Let’s break down the Cubs’ roster outlook, strengths and weaknesses, and betting predictions for the 2026 Major League Baseball season.
Chicago Cubs Futures Odds for the 2026 MLB Season
Here are some betting markets for the Cubs heading into the season.
To win the World Series +1800
To win the National League +900
To make the playoffs -225
Alex Bregman to win NL MVP +1900
Pete Crow-Armstrong to win NL MVP +4000
Moises Ballesteros to win NL Rookie of the Year +1300
Chicago enters the year as one of the betting favourites in the NL Central, reflecting both a strong lineup and a roster that has remained competitive over the past several seasons.
Chicago Cubs Key Offseason Additions
The Cubs won the Alex Bregman sweepstakes, bringing the star third baseman over from the American League following stints with Houston and Boston.
Bregman has hit at least 23 home runs five times in his career and remains one of baseball’s most consistent offensive players. He likely would have reached that mark again last season if injuries had not limited him to 114 games with the Red Sox.
Chicago also addressed the bullpen during the offseason. Hunter Harvey, Phil Maton, and Caleb Thielbar were all brought in as part of a broader effort to rebuild the relief corps.
Chicago Cubs Key Offseason Departures
Although they don’t play the same position, Bregman effectively replaces Kyle Tucker in the Cubs lineup. Chicago lost Tucker to the Los Angeles Dodgers in free agency, a move that reflects the financial reality of competing with one of baseball’s most aggressive spenders.
The bullpen also saw significant turnover. Ryan Brasier, Brad Keller, Drew Pomeranz, and Taylor Rogers all departed in free agency, while Andrew Kittredge was traded.
Chicago Cubs Lineup and Roster Outlook for 2026
Offense should once again be a strength for Chicago.
The Cubs scored 793 runs last season, the third most in the National League and fifth most in Major League Baseball. With Bregman joining a lineup that already includes Pete Crow-Armstrong, Michael Busch, Seiya Suzuki, Ian Happ, and Dansby Swanson, the club has the potential to remain among the league’s most productive offenses.
Chicago also ranked third in stolen bases in 2025 and should remain aggressive on the basepaths. Crow-Armstrong in particular provides elite speed and defensive value in center field.
Pitching is the area with the most uncertainty. Justin Steele is expected to miss the early portion of the season and may not return until sometime during the summer. Meanwhile, newcomer Edward Cabrera is projected to occupy the fifth spot in the rotation but remains relatively unproven at the major league level.
Chicago Cubs Strengths and Weaknesses
Chicago’s lineup depth is the clear strength of this roster. The Cubs feature multiple hitters capable of producing power, driving in runs, and contributing on the basepaths.
The main question mark is pitching depth. With several changes in the bullpen and Steele sidelined early in the season, the Cubs will need both their rotation and relief corps to stabilize if they hope to maintain their place near the top of the NL Central.
Chicago Cubs Prediction and Best Bet for 2026
There is limited betting value on Chicago at relatively short odds to win the division at +110 or to make the playoffs at -225. Futures wagers on the National League or World Series are more intriguing, but any path to a championship would likely run through the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Instead, the most appealing longshot play may be Pete Crow-Armstrong to win NL MVP at +4000.
Crow-Armstrong showcased his five-tool ability during his first full season as a starter in 2025. He finished with 31 home runs, 95 RBIs, 91 runs scored, and 35 stolen bases while also earning a Gold Glove in center field.
If the 23-year-old continues that trajectory and the Cubs contend for the division title, he could quickly enter the National League MVP conversation.