Despite only 3 1/2 games out of a Wild Card spot, the Chicago Cubs have five teams in front of them in that race. Chicago has a 48-53 record and an 8.4 percent chance of making the postseason. With the odds against the Cubs, sources familiar with the clubs plans “don’t foresee a scenario in which they become buyers at the July 30 Trade Deadline,” sources told The Athletic’s Patrick Mooney, Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon.
“We’re not in a good shape,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell said Sunday at Wrigley Field. “We got to get it going fast here.”
However, that doesn’t mean the Cubs are exactly open to selling either. They don’t have great pieces to sell, though they expect to contend in 2025, leaving them on the fence of things.
Cubs Trade Rumors: No Expectations to Be Sellers
Last week, the Cubs trade rumors did have them show interest in Toronto Blue Jays catcher Danny Jansen. The Cubs reportedly talked with both the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox about a potential Jameson Taillon trade. When it comes to Taillon, it makes sense to move him even if the Cubs don’t see this trade deadline as a major sell-off. Moving his $18 million salary could free up some money to spend on roster needs this offseason.
As for the rental players on the Cubs roster, there isn’t much to choose from. Drew Smyly owns a respectable 2.92 ERA in 37 innings of relief. However, Smyly has walked 10.2 percent of his opponents and has a contract other clubs might want to avoid (two years, $19 million). Smyly is owed $8.5 million this season in addition to a $2.5 million buyout on a $10 million mutual option for 2025.
Kyle Hendricks is a free agent after the season, but won’t draw interest with a $16 million salary that comes with a 6.69 ERA. Hector Neris has a 3.74 ERA and a 24.2 percent strikeout rate in 33 2/3 innings. Neris is playing on a $9 million salary and his club option will convert to a player option if he appears in 24 more games this season. Cody Bellinger can opt out of his contract at season’s end, but he is out with a fractured finger.
A Speculative Possibility
The Athletic’s report raises eyebrows about the Cubs potentially listening to offers of left-handed starter Justin Steele. With three-plus seasons of club control left, the asking price might surpass the ask for crosstown rival Garret Crochet and American League Cy Young favorite Tarik Skubal. The Cubs might not shop Steele but might be intrigued if someone steps with a Juan Soto–type trade.
The same can be said about Gold Glove winner Nico Hoerner. The second baseman can also play shortstop, but the asking price could involve legitimate contributors who can be on next year’s roster. Hoerner remains under club control for the next two seasons.
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