Veterans and cornerstone pieces such as Dansby Swanson occupy prominent spots within that structure. Some deals reflect both performance and expectation, anchoring a roster built to remain competitive over the long haul.

As salaries continue to shape roster construction across the MLB, their top earners offer a glimpse into its strategic balance of experience, stability and upside, revealing how those commitments align with their broader ambitions.

Who are the highest-paid Cubs in 2026?

The Chicago Cubs’ highest-paid players are led by Alex Bregman, whose five-year, $175 million contract places him at the top of the team’s salary structure with $32.5 million, according to Spotrac’s 2026 payroll projections.

His average annual value ranks among the largest commitments on the roster, reflecting the franchise’s major investment in adding a proven impact bat. Right behind him is Dansby Swanson with $25.2 million, one of the cornerstones of the lineup.

These contracts outline the financial core of the roster. The distribution of salary reflects a blend of veteran stability and strategic acquisitions, showing where the organization has chosen to concentrate its biggest investments heading into the 2026 season.

The Yankees could’ve had Manny Machado and/or Bryce Harper. They could’ve pursued Carlos Correa, Carlos Rodon, Robbie Ray, or traded for Luis Castillo. Instead, they traded for an aging, injury-prone Josh Donaldson making nearly $30 million.

We’re talking about a team that’s spent $3 billion since 2009and has no World Series to show for it, and it’s hard to justify Cashman keeping his job. So, if he wants to turn things around once and for all, he should target — and get — at least two of these players.

MLB Rumors: 3 Players Yankees Should Target In Free Agency

3. Dansby Swanson

Isiah Kiner-Falefa, Josh Donaldson, and Gelyber Torres combined for 39 fielding errors last season. That shouldn’t happen with a defensive specialist such as Dansby Swanson taking over the starting SS spot.

Moreover, Swanson made great strides as a hitter this season, hitting .277 with an OBP of .329. The Atlanta Braves will sure love to keep him around, but it doesn’t sound like he’s got that on his plans right now.

2. Willson Contreras

Neither Jose Trevino, nor Kyle Higashioka have ever been or will ever be consistent hitters. That’s why the Yankees need to break the bank and pay Willson Contreras as much as he wants, as he’s one of the best in business in that regard among catchers.

The Yankees’ bottom of the order was horrible for the most part of the year, and it sure showed up in the postseason. The former Chicago Cubs star doesn’t strike out often, and he can hit for power and average while also being a great defender.

1. Trea Turner

With DJ LeMahieu struggling with injuries, the Yankees struggled vastly to get on base. They need a leadoff hitter who can actually… lead off the offense, and Trea Turner is one of the best in the game.

The Yankees need a shortstop who can live up to Derek Jeter’s standards. The Los Angeles Dodgers failed to extend Turner and risk losing him in free agency, and the Yankees simply cannot afford to miss out on this chance.