The first being that Owen Ayers could be with the Cubs by the end of the season, but also an early read on what the future may hold for Seiya Suzuki and Carson Kelly. Cubs preparing to be without Carson Kelly after the 2026 seasonAs for Kelly, Sharma notes that the idea of the veteran catcher returning to the Cubs can't be ruled out. That being said, the Cubs insider also notes the Cubs are preparing for the 2027 season as if Kelly won't be on the roster. Like Suzuki, Kelly is positioned to be one of the best free agents available at his position this offseason. In part, this could be the reason why the Cubs' front office acted with urgency for this season at the deadline.