Cubs' Trade Deadline Strategy: Who’s on the Block?

The Leadoff Man

This season has crushed my baseball spirit, and it's been a rollercoaster of emotions that I needed to take a break after so many late-game letdowns. The Cubs' performance has been so disheartening that they've been downgraded from the big screen to my iPad, and for a few games in late June, I could only bring myself to track their progress on the MLB app. As a dedicated fan, I live and breathe every high and low, but the current state of play has left me unable to commit to this level of disappointment on the field.

That said, I’ll still be providing updates throughout the rest of the season as I figure out the next best step for the Cubs Superfan Newsletter. I will be releasing a series of posts that look back on the trades that ended the 2016 Championship team. Stay tuned for reflections on the trades of Rizzo, Baez, Bryant, and more over the next couple of weeks.

The Chicago Cubs face a crucial series against the Brewers, with their trade deadline strategy hanging in the balance. If they can't sweep Milwaukee, expect the Cubs to become sellers. From seasoned veterans to promising talents, here's a look at who might be packing their bags as the deadline approaches.

Da Bears?

With the Bears starting training camp, I'm considering expanding our focus to include both Cubs and Bears content. What do you think? Are you for or against this idea? Let me know your thoughts!

Veterans on the Block

Several veteran Cubs players are likely to trade candidates. With the Cubs potentially selling, the focus shifts to players with expiring contracts or those who might not fit into the long-term plans.

• Hector Neris: Signed for 1 year at $9M with a club option for 2026, Neris offers a reliable bullpen arm with medium trade value. Teams in need of bullpen depth could see him as a valuable addition.

• Kyle Hendricks: In the final year of a 4-year, $55M deal, Hendricks is set to be a free agent. Despite his low trade value, his veteran presence and experience might attract teams looking for rotation depth.

• Tomas Nido: On a $405,756 deal and an unrestricted free agent at year-end, Nido's trade value is minimal, but he could be a backup catcher option for a contender.

• Drew Smyly: With a $10.5M contract this year and a mutual option for $10M next season, Smyly's value is low. Still, his experience might interest teams needing left-handed relief.

• .Mike Tauchman: At 33, Tauchman has two years of arbitration left, making him a valuable fourth outfielder for contenders. His medium trade value reflects his utility and experience.

• Patrick Wisdom: Wisdom, 32, also has two years of arbitration left. As a pinch-hit option, his low trade value might still interest teams seeking depth.

• Mark Leiter Jr.: On a 1-year, $850,000 deal, Leiter Jr. is 33 with two years of arbitration left. His performance this season gives him a medium trade value, appealing to teams needing bullpen help.

Valuable Talent and Potential Stars

Young players and high-value assets could bring substantial returns. These players could draw significant interest due to their performance and team control.

• Justin Steele: Controlled until 2028, Steele's very high value as the ace makes him a prime target. Trading him could reshape the Cubs' future with a haul of top prospects but is it worth it?

  In Justin Steele Trade Rumors, These Three Teams Have the Motivation and the Prospect Punch

  

• Cody Bellinger: On a 3-year, $80M contract with an opt-out after this season, his current injury impacts Bellinger's medium value. Still, his potential upside could attract teams willing to take the risk.

  

  The Cubs Trading Cody Bellinger is "Not Impossible" - Bleacher Nation

• Jameson Taillon: Taillon's 4-year, $68M contract runs through 2026, with a $18M salary for 2024. His medium trade value makes him appealing, especially for a team like Baltimore seeking a playoff-caliber starter.

  

  Red Sox, Yankees Talked To Cubs About Jameson Taillon

Untouchables and Unlikely Movers

Certain players are unlikely to be traded. These players either have no-trade clauses or circumstances that make a trade improbable.

• Ian Happ: With a no-trade clause and a desire to stay in Chicago, Happ is off the market. He's a free agent after the 2027 season.

• Shota Imanaga: Recently arrived from Japan, trading Imanaga would be counterproductive. He's staying put to prove his value in MLB.

• Dansby Swanson: With a big contract and underperformance, Swanson isn't an attractive trade candidate.

• David Bote: At $5.5M per year and limited playing time, Bote's trade value is low, making a trade unlikely.

• Seiya Suzuki: Like Happ, Suzuki has a no-trade clause, ensuring he remains with the Cubs.

The Closer

As the trade deadline looms, the Cubs' future hinges on the next few games against the Brewers. From veterans like Hector Neris and Kyle Hendricks to high-value assets like Justin Steele and Nico Hoerner, the potential trades could reshape the roster and farm system. Keep an eye on how the series unfolds and what moves the front office decides to make.

Stay tuned, Cubs fans—it's going to be an exciting ride!