Forum Friday: Cubs Pre-Offseason Mega Thread, Non-Cub Playoff Chit-Chat

Cubs Video

With no games this week, the Cubs fan forums remained active as members discussed the team's future. This week's Forum Friday highlights four threads: the Cubs' post-season performance and offseason plans, non-Cub playoff chatter, the 2026 Cubs' offensive struggles, and the 2026 AFL season's standout players.

Are you exhausted by algorithmic internet "discussion"? Tired of seeing posts that are meant only to anger you, bait you into a response, or find yet another way to extract your personal data? Come join the conversation on the human-moderated North Side Baseball forums, where you can talk Cubs baseball without the constant barrage of misinformation, hot takes and loudmouths. Joining is free: create an account at diamondcentric.net, then use that same login here to comment.

Cubs Pre-Offseason Mega Thread

Cubs fans debated the team's post-season performance and future direction, focusing on the challenges of competing with the Brewers, the need for farm system reinforcements, and the value of current players like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Dansby Swanson. Commenters questioned the feasibility of achieving 97+ wins, discussed potential trades and free agent moves, and debated whether the Brewers' success was sustainable. There was disagreement on whether the Cubs should prioritize defense or strikeouts, with some arguing for a reset and others defending the current strategy.

Non-Cub Playoff Megathread Chit-Chat

Commenters discussed various non-Cub playoff games, expressing mixed feelings about teams like the Braves, Brewers, and Padres. They noted the Braves' 3-run home run in the 8th and criticized Atlanta's empty seats. Some expressed hope for the Dodgers and Rays in the NLCS, while others debated the Padres-Dodgers matchup. There was discussion about the Yankees' pitching and the possibility of MLB reseeding the playoffs. Members were split on whether a missed home run by the Padres would have changed the game's outcome.

The 2026 Cubs Were Always a Two- (or Three-)Man Show at the Plate

This thread discusses the 2026 Cubs' playoff collapse, focusing on their offensive struggles despite strong regular-season stats. Members debated the roles of key players like Seiya, Suzuki, and Happ, with some arguing that the team's reliance on a few stars left them vulnerable. Commenters split on whether the Cubs should re-sign Suzuki or let Happ go, with some emphasizing defensive value and others prioritizing offense. Most agreed the team needs offensive upgrades but faced challenges in free agency.

AFL 2026

Discusses the 2026 AFL season, focusing on players like Dominick Reid, Kade Snell, and John Cabral. Commenters note Reid's expected 5 ERA, Snell's .900+ OPS, and Cabral's 101.3 mph fastball. There's interest in Cabral's high walk rate and Rujano's 95.8 mph average. Most agree the AFL is hitter-friendly, with varying player experience, and highlight Cabral's potential based on his velocity.

It's another great day to be a Cubs fan at North Side Baseball!