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3w ago

Cubs Stick to Midtier Deadline Strategy as Postseason Doubts Persist

Insiders warn that lingering rotation injuries paired with untested high-leverage relief roles could undermine the Cubs’ postseason push.

Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer talks with colleagues before an exhibition game against the Yomiuri Giants at the Tokyo Dome on March 16, 2025. (John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)
Aug 5, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga (18) throws the ball against the Cincinnati Reds during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
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Aug 6, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Daniel Palencia (48) throws the ball against the Cincinnati Reds during the ninth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Overview

  • The Cubs bypassed high-end starters MacKenzie Gore and Merrill Kelly to acquire midtier arms Taylor Rogers, Andrew Kittredge and Mike Soroka along with utilityman Willi Castro at the July 31 deadline.
  • Chicago’s starting rotation still sits 14th in MLB in ERA and remains battered after losing Justin Steele for the season and dealing with setbacks to Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon and Mike Soroka.
  • Deadline additions Rogers and Kittredge immediately boosted the team’s previously league-low sinker usage but the team’s late-inning assignments remain unsettled.
  • After a standout first half, the offense has cooled since the All-Star break with Kyle Tucker hitting just .212 and bench depth remaining a concern.
  • A coach, executive and scout all warn that Chicago may lack the pitching depth to match up against elite National League contenders in a lengthy postseason run.