Cubs Expected to be 'Proactive' In Trade Market For Starting Pitcher

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Jun 5, 2025 - 03:30
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Cubs Expected to be 'Proactive' In Trade Market For Starting Pitcher originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

The Chicago Cubs have a few key issues they need to solve to be among the top contenders for the 2025 World Series. With a stacked offense and a demonstrably improved bullpen, the only problem is starting pitching.

During a segment on 670 The Score, Bruce Levine predicted that the Cubs would aggressively pursue a trade for a Justin Steele replacement. After Steele suffered a season-ending injury, the Cubs' need for a starter only increased. Levine sees the Cubs making a move and being proactive in doing so.

"I will say that the Cubs are certainly out there trying to fortify their pitching right now." Levine said. "And over the next two to three weeks, I think they'll put a strong effort into trying to acquire a starting pitcher, or two."

Levine saying that the Cubs will explore the trade market for starting pitching in the next 2-3 weeks is a quick turnaround for the Cubs. With the MLB trade deadline not for over a month, a lot of teams will be patient when it comes to moving off their assets or trading for players.

The Cubs, however, need pitching help now. Levine says that with the Cubs' need being so clear, there is no need to wait. "They're not going to wait until the deadline to make a trade," Levine said. "They're going to be proactive."

Chicago Cubs pitcher Justin Steele (35) looks on after throwing a pitch against the Athletics during the second inning at Sutter Health Park.Ed Szczepanski-Imagn Images

With teams like the Colorado Rockies and Miami Marlins already being out of postseason contention, there are options for the Cubs to go out and acquire.

Whether it's a big name like Sandy Alcantara or a lesser-known name like German Marquez or Cal Quantrill, the Cubs will be involved in trade talks before the deadline. 

After the Steele injury, Shota Imanaga being out for an extended period, and the Javier Assad setback, the Cubs have a clear need in the starting rotation.

Waiting to make a move could have the Cubs missing out on some of the top arms available. Being proactive and aggressive in their pursuit of starting pitching makes a lot of sense for the Cubs.

With a great offense and an improved bullpen, the only place left to improve is the starting rotation. The Cubs are likely to acquire a new starting pitcher; the only question is when. This report from Levine suggests that the Cubs are being aggressive in their pursuit of starting pitching.

Related: Cubs Given Major Update on Shota Imanaga's Potential Return

Related: MLB Insider Floats Cubs as a Suitor for Diamondbacks’ Pitchers

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 4, 2025, where it first appeared.

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