With the MLB trade deadline set for 6 p.m. ET today, Cubs trade rumors are swirling as Chicago actively reshapes its roster to keep playoff ambitions alive. After days of speculation, the Cubs made an early move by acquiring right-hander Michael Soroka from the Washington Nationals, a deal designed to bring much-needed depth to a battered rotation.
The Cubs’ situation entering deadline day is urgent. Starters Justin Steele and Jameson Taillon are sidelined with injuries, while Colin Rea has struggled for consistency. Soroka, once among the brightest young pitchers in baseball, brings experience, posting a 4.87 ERA with an encouraging 25.4% strikeout rate this season. Concerns linger about his recently decreased fastball velocity, but joining Chicago’s strong infield defense could boost his effectiveness.
Latest Cubs Trade Rumors and Targets
Chicago’s trade ambitions do not stop with Soroka. According to several league insiders, the front office is aggressively pursuing further upgrades:
- Starting Pitching: The Cubs have been linked to a wide array of arms on the market. Reports confirm talks with the Orioles about Zach Eflin and exploratory discussions with the Rays regarding multiple pitchers, including rental options like Zack Littell and controllable talents such as Taj Bradley. The Cubs are also reportedly interested in Guardians righty Shane Bieber, though his contract presents financial challenges.
- Third Base and Utility Help: Recognizing slightly inconsistent production at third base, the Cubs are exploring talents who could offer reliable defense and a spark on offense. While rumors tied the club to Arizona’s Eugenio Suárez, as of this writing the D-backs have yet to move their power-hitting infielder.
- Prospect Deals: Speculation continues about whether the Cubs will part with top prospects like Jaxson Wiggins to acquire an elite, controllable starting pitcher such as MacKenzie Gore. The key holdup seems related to extension negotiations and the size of the haul required, but insiders say a deal isn’t off the table yet.
Read also-Michael Soroka Traded to Cubs from Nationals in Surprising Deadline Move
Cubs’ Needs and Depth Chart Challenges
- Injuries to key pitchers haven’t only hurt the rotation but stretched the bullpen thin.
- Pitching reinforcements are the top priority, but bench depth and another bat remain on Chicago’s wish list.
- Management has publicly stated they will not make “reactionary” moves but are keenly aware of the NL Central’s tight playoff race.
MLB Trade Deadline Moves and Cubs’ Playoff Push
Leaguewide, the market has accelerated over the past 24 hours:
- Contenders like the Yankees, Mariners, and Orioles have already made key trades.
- The biggest names on the block—Eugenio Suárez, Dylan Cease, Merrill Kelly, and more—could still shift the power balance by tonight’s deadline.
Given the Cubs’ current challenges and competitive window, fans should expect at least one more significant move before trades are cut off at 6 p.m. ET.
Possible Cubs Trade Targets Table
What’s Next for the Cubs?
With hours to go, Cubs trade rumors suggest Chicago will stay aggressive up to the final minute. Fans hope moves made today will propel the club back into serious contention for October.
Curious if the Cubs will land another ace or a big bat? Have thoughts on Chicago’s strategy? Let us know in the comments—your take might predict the next blockbuster!