Cubs Admit 2025 Trade Deadline Pitching Gamble Fails Amid Playoff Push

The Chicago Cubs entered the 2025 MLB trade deadline needing to bolster their starting pitching, particularly after losing Justin Steele for the season due to injury. Despite being strong contenders in the NL Central, the Cubs' limited trade activity, highlighted by acquiring injured veteran Michael Soroka, failed to address their rotation's weaknesses, causing concern among fans and analysts. Soroka was injured shortly after his debut with the Cubs, further weakening the team's pitching depth and fueling criticism of President Jed Hoyer's conservative trade approach, which prioritized prospects over immediate pitching upgrades. The Cubs missed an opportunity to acquire more reliable starters, such as nearly trading for Adrian Houser from the White Sox, a move they ultimately declined. While additions to the bullpen and position player depth were made, the failure to secure a frontline starter leaves the Cubs vulnerable as they compete with the surging Milwaukee Brewers for the division title. This has resulted in doubts about the Cubs' ability to make a deep playoff run despite their strong regular-season record.