Following a disappointing late-season fade in 2023, the Chicago Cubs are focused on reestablishing themselves as a top contender in the National League for 2024. Despite retaining the core group from last year, the team has faced significant challenges this season. Manager Craig Counsell, along with the acquisition of Japanese pitcher Shota Imanaga, was brought in to compensate for the departure of right-hander Marcus Stroman.
However, the Cubs’ 2024 campaign has been marred by several issues. Injuries to pivotal players like Cody Bellinger and Seiya Suzuki have hampered the team’s performance. Additionally, the bullpen’s struggles in preserving leads and underwhelming seasons from key players such as Christopher Morel and Dansby Swanson have contributed to the Cubs’ difficulties in maintaining consistency.
Chicago began the season with promise under Counsell’s leadership, finishing April with a solid 18-12 record. Unfortunately, the team has since struggled, and they currently find themselves at the bottom of the NL Central, trailing the Milwaukee Brewers by 11 games. As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Cubs are beginning to shift their focus towards the future, with potential moves for the 2025 season in mind.
One of the most prominent names the Cubs are likely to shop is Jameson Taillon. Despite a challenging first season with the Cubs, where he posted a 4.84 ERA, Taillon has had a remarkable turnaround in 2024. He has delivered an impressive performance with a 2.96 ERA over 100 innings. Although Taillon is not considered an ace, his strong showing this season, combined with his contract situation, makes him a valuable trade asset. He is under team control for two more years at a relatively affordable $18 million annually, which is below the top 30 salaries for starting pitchers in MLB this year.
With his current form and team-friendly contract, Taillon presents a compelling option for teams looking to bolster their rotation. His potential trade value is significant, given his recent performance and the contract terms, making him a prime candidate for a deadline deal.
In addition to Taillon, the Cubs might explore trading other players to improve their future prospects. Drew Smyly, a 35-year-old left-hander, is a candidate for trade consideration. Smyly has been effective in relief roles this season, sporting a 2.79 ERA in 27 appearances. However, with a $10 million salary this year and a $10.5 million mutual option for next year, the Cubs might need to absorb some of his salary to make a trade happen. Despite this, Smyly’s experience and effectiveness as a veteran lefty reliever could be appealing to contending teams.
Another reliever who could be on the move is Hector Neris. Neris has served as a reliable fill-in closer for the Cubs but is ideally suited for seventh or eighth-inning roles on a contending team. His $9 million salary and similar club option for 2025 make him a potential rental candidate, similar to Smyly.
Overall, while the Cubs are grappling with immediate challenges, their strategy moving forward involves managing their roster and preparing for the future. With a core group already under contract for the next season and several valuable trade assets, the Cubs are positioning themselves to make strategic moves that will set them up for success in 2025.
