Cubs Acquire Four Players, Decline Frontline Starter at MLB Trade Deadline

The Chicago Cubs faced a challenging MLB trade deadline due to a tight market for starting pitchers, a key need amplified by injuries to Justin Steele, Jameson Taillon, and others. Despite linking to several high-profile starters such as Joe Ryan, Sandy Alcántara, and Merrill Kelly, Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer explained that no marquee controllable starters were traded, and the asking prices were prohibitive for the future, leading the Cubs to refrain from overpaying. Instead, the Cubs acquired right-handed pitcher Michael Soroka, relievers Andrew Kittredge and Taylor Rodgers, and utility player Willi Castro to bolster their roster. Hoyer noted they pursued options aggressively, including late discussions for Adrian Houser, but ultimately did not secure a frontline starter. The Cubs also traded four top-20 prospects in the process, prioritizing sustainable roster building over short-term rentals. This strategic approach reflects the front office's cautious stance amidst a limited pool of available quality starters at the deadline.