Cubs Seek Pitching Solutions Amid Trade Deadline Challenges

Jed Hoyer, President of the Chicago Cubs, is focusing on enhancing the team’s pitching. With the trade deadline approaching on August 3, Hoyer admitted that while Chicago seeks pitching improvements, headline-grabbing deals may not occur immediately. The Cubs recently reinstated veteran left-hander Drew Pomeranz from Triple-A Iowa as part of these efforts.

According to Hoyer, limited teams are currently prepared to trade players. Hence, the Cubs plan to make smaller, strategic moves to address their pitching needs. The hope is to identify players that will contribute positively over time. After acquiring Pomeranz, the Cubs faced a tough defeat against the Cardinals, losing 17-1. During this game, new acquisition David Peterson struggled, allowing 10 runs and nine hits within 3 2/3 innings. Bryse Wilson, another recent addition, conceded seven runs in three innings of relief.

Significant injuries plague the Cubs’ pitching staff, including Ben Brown and Edward Cabrera, who recently joined the injured list. Their absence heightened trade discussions with the New York Mets. Yet, many teams remain undecided about becoming sellers or buyers, influenced by current standings and the upcoming draft on July 11. This uncertainty affects the Cubs’ potential pitching upgrades, likely leading to smaller transactions.

Hoyer noted that the looming offseason lockout could affect trade dynamics, as teams weigh the implications of acquiring pitchers with contracts extending into 2027. Pomeranz, returning to the Cubs, is seen as a versatile reliever from his successful 2025 season. The Cubs have a bullpen vacancy due to Hoby Milner’s recent appendectomy.

Prior to the Cubs’ game, Pete Crow-Armstrong received the National League Player of the Month honor for June. Crow-Armstrong achieved a .381 average with 11 home runs and 20 RBIs. Although pleased with his performance, he expressed focused determination for the remainder of the season.

Reporter Andy Martinez contributed to this analysis for the Chicago Tribune.