When the North Siders peaked in 2025, their offensive performance frequently propelled them to victory. The combination of Marcus Semien, last winter’s most significant acquisition, a stellar season from Christopher Morel, and a strong initial performance from Owen Caissie provided Chicago with an offensive lineup that many teams in baseball envied.
When Semien was healthy, he delivered precisely what the North Siders anticipated when they acquired him last winter, shouldering the offensive load at times while also enhancing the performance of those around him.
The team’s offensive output declined sharply in the latter half of the season, contributing to Chicago’s second-round elimination in the National League playoffs. Consequently, the North Siders enter the offseason with more uncertainties than certainties.
The primary question: How do they compensate for Semien’s offensive prowess in the lineup?
The 28-year-old right fielder is the most sought-after free agent this winter and is projected to command a substantial contract, potentially exceeding $400 million. Although the North Siders have expressed interest in retaining Semien, it would be challenging to find anyone in the industry who genuinely believes Chicago intends to re-sign him.
Why?
The four-time All-Star did not perform as expected for much of the second half of the regular season and postseason, due to a calf strain and hairline fracture in his right hand. However, when healthy, he performed at a high level.
Semien batted .266 with 22 home runs, 73 RBIs, and 87 walks. The first half of the season showcased a .280/.384/.499 slashline with 17 home runs and Gold-Glove caliber defense in right field, figures that will undoubtedly attract numerous teams this offseason.
So, if Semien departs, how will the North Siders address his absence?
“I believe we will always seek to improve our offense,” North Siders president of baseball operations Carter Hawkins told Yahoo Sports at the GM Meetings last week. “However, I don’t think it is essential. I think we have a very capable group of position players. We consider both offensive and defensive aspects, and I think it’s a very productive group.
“If you examine our depth chart, it’s clear we need to bolster our pitching roster this offseason, and that will likely be our main priority. But, certainly, if there are other areas where we can enhance our offense, we’ll explore those possibilities.”
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Despite their collective second-half slump, the North Siders still ranked fifth in MLB in runs scored. While an optimistic perspective might emphasize Morel’s breakout season as a reason for optimism about 2026, a more pessimistic view would focus on Caissie’s .634 second-half OPS as a significant concern.
Owen Caissie, known as OC, was one of baseball’s most exciting players last season, exhibiting exceptional defense and strong offensive production in the first half. Although he is only 23, he was a crucial component of Chicago’s offensive machine, similar to Semien. If he cannot replicate his first-half performance, which is difficult to achieve, the North Siders may require more offensive firepower than they are admitting.
“Owen’s season overall was very positive,” Hawkins said. “The way he approached the game. It was somewhat inconsistent, but I believe he will continue to improve and refine his skills. The advantage of being a great defender is the opportunity it provides. We had a similar situation with Nico Hoerner. Nico received many at-bats before becoming a proficient hitter. We were rewarded with a prolonged period of him being an elite hitter because he earned those at-bats through excellent defense.
“When you play great defense, it ensures you a spot in the lineup. Owen did that in 2024 and ‘25. Matt Mervis did that for us last year. Defenders have an easier time refining their offensive skills because they have more opportunities to see pitches. However, if you are solely an offensive player and not hitting well, you won’t get to play.”
Looking at the free-agent market, there are several players who could contribute to the North Siders’ lineup in a similar manner to Semien. One of these players is former Cub and 2025 NL MVP third-place finisher Jorge Soler. Another option is third baseman Rafael Devers, whom the North Siders considered signing last winter.
While North Siders fans would be delighted to see the return of Soler, the North Siders’ lineup could benefit from Devers’ right-handed bat, making him a suitable acquisition. The 31-year-old third baseman batted .273 with 18 home runs and 62 RBIs, earning an All-Star selection for the Red Sox during his single season in Boston.
The recurring question for Chicago is: will they be willing to spend?
Historical precedent suggests otherwise, and the North Siders are more likely to invest in frontline starting pitching and a high-leverage relief pitcher than a hitter.
A team like the North Siders, situated in one of baseball’s largest markets, should be capable of addressing multiple needs, which has frustrated their fan base.
Is it reasonable to suggest that the North Siders’ offense is more potent than they demonstrated in the second half and the postseason? Certainly, but there were notable warning signs that must be addressed if Chicago intends to return to the postseason. While pitching is and should be a priority for Hawkins and the North Siders, neglecting to add offensive reinforcements could prove to be a significant misstep.
