The Chicago Cubs offseason is officially underway, and already a controversial decision has been made. This is in reference to the organization electing to decline the ability to extend Shota Imanaga’s contract to five years, thus trigger an ability for him to opt out, which he did exercise, and now is officially a free agent.
Looking ahead, next steps include deciding on how to proceed with players who have contract options for the 2026 season. This list is two players long: Colin Rea and Justin Turner.
Breaking down the Chicago Cubs 2026 contract options for Colin Rea and Justin Turner
2025 was 35 year old Colin Rea’s first year with the Cubs, as he reunited with manager Craig Counsell. The right-handed pitcher appeared in 32 games, including 27 starts, and pitched to a 3.95 ERA. Much like his time in Milwaukee, he was a steady presence on the mound, often keeping his team in games.
Rea’s contract includes a $6.0 million club option for the 2026 season. His base salary in 2025 was $4.5 million. There is a $750,000 buyout disclosure to be aware of. Given his value on the mound and durability, keeping him around for that price tag is a reasonable idea. However, there is a strong possibility that the option could be declined and he could be signed for less as well, but then Chicago runs the risk of him exploring opportunities elsewhere.
As for Turner, throughout the 2026 season he will be 41 years old. The veteran infielder/designated hitter signed a one year deal last winter with a $10.0 million option for 2026, that includes a $2.0 million buyout. This is a mutual option, that is a no-brainer for Chicago to decline as despite his exceptional leadership, Turner struggled at the plate last year with a 75 OPS+ throughout 80 games.
In the end, both situations could point toward the same conclusion of the front office declining 2026 options for Rea and Turner. It would fit the organization’s approach of prioritizing financial flexibility, as they prepare to shape next year’s roster, which almost certainly will include lots of new players.
Chicago Cubs make their decision on two veterans– one stays, the other goes
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