Cubs could be in the mix for Orioles ace after strong 2024 season

The Chicago Cubs are likely not going to reach the postseason in 2024 and are best served turning their focus to 2025. But when the offseason begins, they might be in the market for some pitching help.

Corbin Burnes may ultimately win the American League Cy Young Award just before he enters free agency. He'll be the top starting pitcher available on the market this winter.

Tim Kelly of Bleacher Report predicted that the Cubs would be a potential fit for the Baltimore Orioles ace.

"One would assume the Dodgers will be interested in Burnes in free agency, and there are already indications that the Chicago Cubs, led by his old Milwaukee Brewers skipper Craig Counsell, will be players as well," Kelly wrote.

The Cubs will need some help on the pitching side, even with Shota Imanaga at the top of their rotation. But he and Burnes would form a solid top two in their rotation next season. The Cubs would also still have Justin Steele.

Burnes obviously is familiar with the National League Central thanks to his days with the Brewers playing under Craig Counsell, so while Chicago will be a new place, it's hardly unfamiliar territory for the former Cy Young.

The 29-year-old has made 27 starts this season with the Orioles. He has won 12 games and posted a 3.23 ERA over 164 1/3 innings while striking out 150 batters and posting a 1.13 WHIP.

The Cubs would signal that they want to win in 2025 by making a move such as this. They've certainly taken some steps forward in recent years, but adding Burnes to their mix would make them a serious threat to win the NL Central.

Burnes' market will certainly be competitive though.

More MLB: Why Cubs former MVP 'needs a strong finish' to 2024 season, per insider