The Chicago Cubs enter today’s MLB action as one of the top-performing teams, highlighted by the league’s best run differential (+109). Although their roster is already competitive, the Cubs’ front office is actively exploring ways to strengthen the team ahead of the MLB trade deadline.
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Cubs are expected to be among the most proactive teams in the trade market this July, with a focus on acquiring both top-tier starting pitchers and bullpen reinforcements.
Cubs Starting Rotation (via FanGraphs):
- 3.85 ERA (17th in MLB)
- 1.20 WHIP (10th)
- .246 opponent batting average (20th)
- 15.6% K-BB rate (8th)
Chicago’s rotation has been hit hard by injuries, including a season-ending elbow issue for Justin Steele and a hamstring injury for Shota Imanaga, now on the injured list. These setbacks have left the Cubs ranked 12th in quality starts with 26 on the season.
The bullpen is another area in need of improvement, especially when it comes to generating strikeouts. As of June 8, Chicago relievers held the third-lowest strikeout rate in the majors at 19.7%, though they were 11th in walk rate (9.8%).
Cubs Bullpen Stats (2025):
- 3.43 ERA (10th)
- 1.26 WHIP (14th)
- .227 opponent batting average (11th)
- 9.9% K-BB rate
While All-Star reliever Ryan Pressly has underperformed with a 4.30 ERA and 1.61 WHIP over 23 innings, pitchers like Caleb Thielbar (1.93 ERA) and Daniel Palencia (1.64 ERA) have been reliable contributors.
The Cubs have a strong track record of identifying quality pitching, even from lesser-known players, which bodes well for their midseason additions. With teams like the Orioles, Red Sox, Rangers, and Diamondbacks likely to be sellers, the Cubs should have no shortage of trade options this summer.
