Will the Chicago Cubs Be Buyers or Sellers?
The Chicago Cubs face uncertainty as the August 3 trade deadline approaches. The decision to buy or sell depends largely on the evolving landscape in Major League Baseball. Cubs President Jed Hoyer highlighted the unpredictability surrounding which teams will opt to sell. He stated, “I just think that we’ve got to wait, we’ve got to get closer to the deadline.” This is particularly true this year, as almost every team in the American League remains competitive.
Cubs’ Recent Experience Influences Strategy
Reflecting on 2023, the Cubs were positioned as potential sellers with a record five games below .500 at the All-Star break. However, a sudden winning streak pulled them back into the playoff race. They kept key player Cody Bellinger and acquired third baseman Jeimer Candelario, finishing narrowly outside a wild-card spot. This past experience shows that decisions made closer to the deadline can shift dramatically.
As of the start of the series against the Minnesota Twins, the Cubs held the top wild-card spot, trailing the Milwaukee Brewers by five games in the NL Central. Hoyer expressed cautious optimism: “We’ve put ourselves in a good position.” He indicated that any potential transactions would likely focus on reinforcing the pitching staff.
Injured Pitchers’ Recovery Could Influence Decisions
Several injured pitchers may soon return to action, impacting the Cubs’ trade strategies. Starter Jameson Taillon, who suffered a hamstring injury in June, is expected back next week, boosting a rotation weakened by injuries. Manager Craig Counsell confirmed Taillon’s activation for the upcoming series against the Detroit Tigers.
Edward Cabrera is making progress following a late June injury. He pitched off the mound recently and will participate in live batting practice soon, targeting a return in the second week of August. Lefty reliever Hoby Milner is recovering from an appendectomy and looks to return early in August. However, closer Daniel Palencia’s recovery timeline has shifted to mid-August due to ongoing rehabilitation.
Challenges Extend Beyond the Pitching Staff
The timeline for starter Justin Steele remains unchanged, as his recovery from a flexor strain progresses. He is set to begin bullpen sessions shortly, marking a significant development in a long recovery period. Meanwhile, third baseman Matt Shaw continues to deal with a wrist sprain that limits his ability to swing the bat.
Despite promising recoveries, Hoyer emphasized the importance of accumulating pitching depth: “You can never have too much pitching and you never have enough.” The Cubs thought they had sufficient depth entering the season but have had to make moves to compensate for various setbacks.
Even with players returning from the injured list, Hoyer asserts that pitching reinforcements are necessary. “I don’t think that’s going to temper our need,” he remarked, underscoring the unpredictability and challenges inherent in managing a baseball team.