Trade Deadline Rumors Swirl
Key Questions
What trades have the Cubs completed recently?
The Cubs acquired Aaron Civale from the A's for a minor leaguer on July 18 and added a left-handed pitcher from the Mets on July 19. These moves address pitching depth needs.
What is Jed Hoyer's stated focus at the trade deadline?
Hoyer has emphasized a focus on adding pitching but has not ruled out position player moves. The primary target remains Tarik Skubal.
Why is acquiring Tarik Skubal considered challenging?
Passan has questioned the Cubs' farm depth, while Murray reports the Tigers' improved play has raised Skubal's asking price significantly. Skubal's elbow issues and free-agent status add uncertainty.
Which pitchers are the Cubs targeting besides Skubal?
Other targets include Luis Castillo, Michael Wacha, Robbie Ray, Seth Lugo, Sonny Gray, Casey Mize, and David Peralta. Intra-division options like Abbott are viewed as fits but unlikely.
What Mets pitchers have been linked to the Cubs?
The Mets, as sellers, are offering David Peralta, Clay Holmes, Luke Weaver, and Brooks Raley. The Cubs have shown early interest in shopping these arms.
Could Matt Shaw be traded?
Shaw is aware of trade rumors surrounding him but remains focused on his recovery. He has been discussed as a potential chip due to his positional flexibility.
Is Robbie Ray a realistic target for the Cubs?
Yes, Nightengale has confirmed Cubs interest in the former Cy Young winner. Ray represents a new and viable option at the deadline.
What role might Moises Ballesteros play in trades?
Ballesteros has been discussed as a trade chip following Ayers' strong breakout performance. This could help bolster the Cubs' prospect package.
The Cubs made a small move, acquiring Aaron Civale from the A's for a minor leaguer on July 18, and reportedly added a left-handed pitcher from the Mets on July 19. Hoyer explicitly stated focus is on pitching but won't rule out position player moves. Primary target remains Tarik Skubal, though Passan questions farm depth. A conflicting report from Murray notes the Tigers are playing better and the asking price is insane, but the Cubs have prospects (Shaw, Alcantara) and Skubal's elbow scare/FA status make it fluid. Other targets: Castillo, Wacha, Ray, Lugo, Gray, Mize, Peralta, Chapman, Holmes. Mets sellers offering Peralta, Holmes, Weaver, Raley. Ballesteros discussed as trade chip due to Ayers' breakout. Robbie Ray is a new, realistic target, with Nightengale confirming Cubs' interest. Intra-division targets (Abbott, Megill, Newcomb) are considered great fits but unlikely. Matt Shaw is aware of trade rumors but focused on his recovery. The Cubs begin a critical stretch before the deadline.