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The Chicago Cubs have a chance to spend some money this offseason and bounce back into contention in 2025. They might need some help with their starting rotation.

The team won 83 games but still missed the postseason and finishing in third place in the National League Central, and it would certainly make sense for them to flex their financial muscle this winter.

Sean Manaea, a left-handed starter, is one player they may pursue. MLB Trade Rumors listed the North Siders as a possible fit for the veteran.

Manaea will be 33 years old in February. There’s not much precedent for teams going to four years for a pitcher’s age 33-36 seasons,” the article said. “Manaea should get three years though, with his camp presumably shooting for a deal like the $63 million contract that Chris Bassitt secured at age 34. It feels like the floor is $39 million for Tyler Anderson. Manaea might be re-signed by the Mets. They’ll face competition from teams like the Angels, Rangers, Tigers, Orioles, Blue Jays, Nationals, Cubs and Dodgers, among others.”

Manaea has an opt-out clause in the two-year contract he signed with the Mets last winter. With 32 starts under his belt, he finished 12-6 with a 3.47 ERA, 184 strikeouts, 181 2/3 innings pitched, and 3.0 WAR.

He would be an asset to any rotation if he can repeat his 2024 performance. If the Cubs want to spend big this winter and challenge the Brewers for first place in the National League Central, they should be able to afford him.