Cubs President Hoyer Seeks Trades Ahead MLB Deadline

Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer is actively preparing for the MLB trade deadline with a focus on strengthening the team to maximize wins and secure a postseason berth. Despite leading the National League Central and boasting high playoff odds, Hoyer emphasizes on-field performance and incremental improvements rather than relying solely on projections. The Cubs are targeting pitching upgrades, with names like Sandy Alcántara, Zac Gallen, Luis Severino, and Mitch Keller reportedly on their radar to address a middling team ERA. Additionally, the Cubs are considering bolstering their infield, especially at third base, where rookie Matt Shaw's offensive struggles have been noted despite strong defense. Hoyer stresses a balanced approach to trades, seeking fair value without mortgaging the farm system and remaining open to creative deals in a complicated market lacking obvious sellers. His approach mirrors past successful strategies, including his time with the Cubs and his admiration for bold moves made by other executives like Boston Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow.