Cubs Starting Pitchers 2025: Who’s Set to Anchor the Rotation
The Chicago Cubs enter 2025 with a rotation that blends proven arms and rising talent, positioning them to compete in a division where pitching depth often decides races. While the bullpen and lineup generate headlines, the starting five will carry the most weight in determining whether the North Siders can challenge for a playoff spot. Here’s what to watch as the season approaches.
The Locks: Veteran Stability Meets Youthful Energy
Justin Steele remains the cornerstone of the Cubs’ rotation, fresh off another season where his ability to limit hard contact kept him among the National League’s most reliable starters. Steele’s fastball-slider combination, paired with improved command in 2024, suggests he’s poised for another step forward in 2025. Behind him, Drew Smyly brings a veteran presence and a resume of big-game experience, though his durability will be closely monitored after recent injury concerns.
Rising right-hander Shota Imanaga, acquired in a midseason trade last year, showed flashes of dominance with his splitter and mid-90s fastball. His adjustment to the majors has been smoother than most, and if he refines his changeup, he could emerge as the Cubs’ most unpredictable—and valuable—arm. Rounding out the rotation, Keegan Thompson’s sinker-heavy approach remains a ground-ball machine, a trait that could be especially valuable in the friendly confines of Wrigley Field.
Wildcards: Depth and Competition
The Cubs’ depth chart includes intriguing options who could force their way into the rotation. Righty Hayden Wesneski, once a top prospect, has shown flashes of dominance but needs consistency. If he harnesses his mid-90s fastball with better secondary pitches, he could push for a spot. Left-hander Caleb Kilian, recovered from Tommy John surgery, adds a power arm to the mix, though his innings limit will be a factor.
Beyond the top five, the Cubs have options like Javier Assad and a pair of intriguing minor leaguers—Jordan Wicks and Matt Mervis—who could see time if injuries strike. The front office’s willingness to mix and match starters based on matchups could keep the rotation fresh, but it also risks overworking arms in a division where every start matters.
Pitching to the Park: How Location Shapes Strategy
Wrigley Field’s dimensions—especially the inviting porch in right field—demand a certain approach from Cubs pitchers. Ground-ball specialists like Thompson thrive here, while fly-ball pitchers like Imanaga may need to adjust their pitch mix to avoid home runs. Steele’s ability to induce weak contact gives him a built-in advantage, while Smyly’s experience in hitter-friendly parks could be an asset if he’s healthy.
The Cubs’ coaching staff will likely emphasize pitch sequencing that exploits the park’s quirks. For example, a sinker-curve combo might be more effective than a fastball-slider approach in certain counts. This tactical nuance could be the difference between a routine out and a two-run homer in a tight game.
What’s Next: Rotation Health and Late-Season Surges
Injury management will be critical. The Cubs’ medical staff has a strong track record of getting pitchers back on track, but the wear and tear of a 162-game season means no starter is truly safe. The team’s bullpen depth—anchored by closer Rowan Wick—could allow the rotation to take calculated risks, like skipping a start or using a six-man rotation in September.
If the Cubs’ young arms like Wesneski or Kilian take a step forward, the rotation could become a strength rather than a question mark. Conversely, if injuries strike, the team may need to rely on stopgaps like Mervis, who has shown promise but lacks major-league experience. The front office’s willingness to make midseason additions could also play a role if the rotation underperforms.
The Cubs’ starting pitching in 2025 won’t be defined by one dominant ace but by a mix of reliability, adaptability, and depth. If Steele and Imanaga stay healthy, Smyly contributes consistently, and the wildcards find their footing, the rotation could be the foundation of a playoff push. For Cubs fans, the most exciting part isn’t just who’s in the rotation—it’s how each pitcher’s strengths align with the team’s broader goals. The season will hinge on whether that alignment holds.