Cubs Reportedly Let Colin Rea Walk Despite Another Year of Dependable Versatility

On November 2, 2026, the Chicago Cubs declined pitcher Colin Rea’s $7.5 million option for 2027, paying a $1 million buyout and making the 36-year-old a free agent. Rea went 19-15 with a 4.13 ERA in 296⅓ innings across the 2025 and 2026 seasons.