Cubs Engage in Multiple Trade Talks Ahead MLB Deadline

The Chicago Cubs are expected to be highly active at the MLB trade deadline as they seek to strengthen their pitching staff, particularly the starting rotation, which currently ranks outside the top 20 in ERA. Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer confirmed that while discussions are ongoing, major trades are more likely closer to the late July deadline. To facilitate these acquisitions, the Cubs are reportedly willing to trade some of their top prospects, including power-hitting outfielder Owen Cassie, signaling their commitment to making a deep playoff run. One prominent trade target for the Cubs is Kansas City Royals' Seth Lugo, a 2024 Cy Young runner-up who has been pitching exceptionally well in 2025. The Cubs have engaged in talks with the Royals about acquiring Lugo to stabilize their rotation after losing Justin Steele for the season, viewing Lugo as a potential key contributor for years to come. Other teams, like the St. Louis Cardinals, are also eyeing rotation upgrades, but the Cubs' active pursuit highlights their aggressive approach to the trade deadline.