Phillies Seek Offseason Upgrades After Playoff Exit

The Chicago Cubs are preparing for a pivotal offseason after a disappointing 2024 season, where they fell short of postseason expectations despite hiring manager Craig Counsell. The Cubs are looking to trade players, notably outfielder Cody Bellinger and pitcher Jameson Taillon, to clear cap space for potential acquisitions. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Phillies aim to aggressively upgrade their roster after another early playoff exit, focusing on outfield and pitching improvements, especially to fill the problematic fifth spot in their starting rotation. They are exploring options such as acquiring Garrett Crochet from the White Sox but face competition and skepticism regarding the feasibility of such a trade. Additionally, the Phillies are not pursuing Juan Soto but are eyeing other high-profile players like Alex Bregman, amid concerns over their aging roster. Overall, both teams are under pressure to make impactful moves that align with their championship aspirations while managing future prospects.