he Chicago Cubs have managed to stay strong in the face of early-season adversity. With a 37-22 record, they sit four games ahead of the St. Louis Cardinals in the NL Central, thanks largely to a powerful offense that’s helped cover for a rotation and bullpen plagued by injuries and inconsistency.
Without Justin Steele and Shota Imanaga, and with a shaky bullpen, the Cubs have still found ways to win. Credit goes to veterans like Chris Flexen and Drew Pomeranz, who’ve stepped up in the bullpen, and to top prospect Cade Horton, who’s helped stabilize the rotation alongside offseason signing Matthew Boyd.
But as the trade deadline approaches, all eyes are on the Cubs’ next move, most expect them to target pitching upgrades to compete with NL heavyweights like the Dodgers, Padres, Giants, Phillies, and Mets.
Why Cubs Justin Turner Is Too Valuable to Trade
According to Taylor Bretl of Yardbarker, veteran Justin Turner is the team’s most tradable asset, not a prospect, but a seasoned utility man in his 17th MLB season. While Turner is slashing just .210/.302/.272, he brings more to the Cubs than just numbers.
A World Series champion and NLCS MVP, Turner provides leadership and postseason experience, two things this young Cubs team lacks. He’s the kind of presence every playoff contender needs in the locker room, especially to mentor emerging talents like Matt Shaw.
The harsh truth? Trading Turner now would net little more than a low-level prospect. His market value is low due to his production, but his intangible value to the Cubs is massive. He’s been through the battles. He knows what it takes to win in October. And that wisdom is worth more than any fringe prospect.
Final Thoughts: Keep the Veteran, Aim Higher
The Cubs are built to contend in 2025, but they’ll need steady leadership and playoff-savvy veterans to navigate the pressure. While prospects may headline a blockbuster trade for pitching, Justin Turner shouldn’t be on the move. He’s a glue guy, and you don’t trade glue when you’re chasing a pennant.
