Cubs Weigh Pitching Upgrades as Trade Deadline Approaches

Cubs Weigh Pitching Upgrades as Deadline Approaches

While the club has been linked to Detroit Tigers left-hander Tarik Skubal, reports indicate that the Cubs are hesitant to surrender major assets for a player who will reach free agency at the end of the season. Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer is reportedly prioritizing the acquisition of a starting pitcher who remains under club control beyond the current season.

Evaluating Potential Rotation Targets

The search for pitching depth extends beyond high-profile targets like Skubal. The Cubs have been identified as a potential fit for Minnesota Twins right-hander Joe Ryan. According to SI, Ryan has emerged as a top trade candidate, boasting a 2.63 ERA and 132 strikeouts over 116 1/3 innings this season. Ryan is viewed as a legitimate ace who carries two additional years of team control beyond 2025, aligning with Hoyer’s stated preference for controllable talent.

However, the acquisition of a front-line starter remains a complex endeavor. Contenders are expected to compete for available arms, and the Twins are projected to demand a significant return for Ryan. Meanwhile, the Cubs are also exploring more cost-effective options to bolster their roster, including potential pursuits of rental starters that would require less prospect capital than a player of Skubal’s caliber.

Addressing Bullpen and Positional Needs

Beyond the starting rotation, the Cubs are looking to address back-end bullpen support. Chicago has expressed interest in New York Mets right-hander Luke Weaver. According to MLB, the Cubs pursued Weaver during the previous offseason before he signed a two-year, $22 million contract with the Mets.

The team’s broader strategy involves navigating a trade market that remains in flux as more clubs determine their status as buyers or sellers. While the Cubs have been mentioned as a landing spot for various impact players, the organization’s historical reluctance to trade premium prospects for short-term rentals suggests a measured approach as the final deadline days approach.

Market Context and Strategic Limits

The trade landscape is heavily influenced by the league’s expanded postseason format, which has made it increasingly difficult for teams to finalize their deadline strategies early in the process. For the Cubs, the challenge lies in identifying players who can provide immediate impact without compromising the team’s future depth.

While names like Skubal and Ryan dominate the rumor mill, the internal philosophy of the Chicago front office remains the primary constraint. As Hoyer and his staff evaluate the availability of starters and relief arms, the focus remains on finding a balance between immediate competitiveness and sustainable roster health. With the deadline rapidly approaching, the Cubs are expected to remain active in evaluating their options across the league.