Cubs' Soroka Injured After Trade From Nationals

The Chicago Cubs acquired starter Michael Soroka from the Nationals at the trade deadline to bolster an injury-plagued rotation, despite concerns about his declining velocity and injury history. Soroka's debut was cut short after two innings due to a low-to-mid-grade shoulder strain, resulting in his placement on the 15-day injured list and a planned reevaluation in a week. Cubs president Jed Hoyer has publicly acknowledged the risk of the trade and expressed regret, stating it is 'not looking like a good bet' so far. The early injury setback has intensified criticism of the Cubs' cautious trade deadline strategy and raised questions about their pitching depth. Manager Craig Counsell remains cautiously optimistic that Soroka may contribute later in the season. The Cubs, now trailing the Brewers in the NL Central, must find effective rotation replacements as they try to maintain their playoff position.