The Chicago Cubs go into MLB games today with one of the best records in baseball, outperforming expectations even amid injuries. Just over a month out from the MLB trade deadline, Chicago is reportedly preparing to make the necessary moves to compete for a deep playoff run.
Jim Bowden of The Athletic writes that the Cubs are “planning to be aggressive” on the trade market in July, focusing on acquiring “a strong starting pitcher” and support for the bullpen.
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- Chicago Cubs rotation stats (FanGraphs): 3.92 ERA (15th in MLB), 1.22 WHIP (9th), .250 batting average allowed (20th), 15.3% K-BB rate (8th)
There’s rightfully no focus on improving the Cubs lineup. Entering play on June 14, Chicago had the second-most runs scored (380) with the fourth-best batting average (.256) and slugging percentage (.439). Pitching is an area for improvement, though, especially since another high-end pitcher could join the postseason rotation.
Chicago is still looking to fill the void left by Justin Steele’s elbow injury, and Shota Imanaga has been on the injured list for an extended time with a hamstring injury. Ideally, the Cubs could find another top-three starter to put behind Imanaga and Matthew Boyd, which would make Jameson Taillon the No. 4 starter.
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While the Cubs bullpen has largely been a strength this season, there’s still room for improvement. Chicago’s left-handed tandem of Caleb Thielbar (1.82 ERA) and Drew Pomeranz (0.63 WHIP) have been phenomenal this season, but another quality right-handed reliever could give manager Craig Counsell more options.
- Chicago Cubs bullpen stats 2025: 3.25 ERA (5th), 1.25 WHIP (12th), .229 batting average allowed (12th), 10.5% K-BB rate
The Miami Marlins have already expressed a willingness to trade former Cy Young Award winner Sandy Alcantara, while clubs like the Baltimore Orioles and Pittsburgh Pirates have dependable starters and relievers available this winter. Given the depth Chicago has in the minor leagues, it should be a fairly effective buyer at the trade deadline this summer.
