The Chicago Cubs are off to a red-hot 35-21 start in 2025, their best opening stretch since the historic 2016 World Series season. Powered by one of baseball’s most explosive offenses, the Cubs have quickly established themselves as a top-tier National League contender.
But even with their offensive firepower and strong early-season momentum, a few cracks are beginning to show, particularly on the mound.
Pitching Woes Threaten Long-Term Outlook
Injuries and inconsistency have cast doubt over the Cubs’ rotation depth. With two frontline starters sidelined, Chicago has been forced to rely heavily on arms like Matthew Boyd, Colin Rea, Jameson Taillon, and rookie Ben Brown. Promising prospect Cade Horton was even promoted earlier than expected, a move born more of necessity than long-term development strategy.
Though this patchwork rotation has kept the Cubs afloat, their 19th-ranked team ERA is a concern, especially with playoff baseball looming. The bullpen hasn’t fared much better, leaving many to wonder whether this staff can hold up deep into October.
Jed Hoyer Speaks Out: Pitching Help Is Coming
In a candid interview with Marquee Sports Network, Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer acknowledged the obvious: the team needs arms, and they’re looking to act.
“We just need to get outs, you know?” Hoyer said. “Whether it’s the beginning of the game or the end… our depth has been tested, and we have to assume that’s not going to stop.”
Hoyer also hinted at the trade market dynamics, calling it a seller’s market and emphasizing the importance of flexibility:
“Ultimately, it is going to be somewhat market-dependent… If there’s none of one of those things available, you have to zag a little bit.”
That openness to pivot strategy reflects a front office ready to make the necessary moves, despite tough market conditions.
Buyers at the Deadline: Cubs Ready to Spend Prospect Capital
It’s no secret the Cubs have been doing their homework on trade targets, particularly rotation depth and high-leverage bullpen arms. Hoyer’s comments only reinforce what insiders already suspected: the Cubs will be active buyers at the deadline.
With a top-tier farm system, Chicago has the prospect firepower to outbid most contenders if the right arm becomes available. While prices will be steep in a seller-heavy market, the Cubs have positioned themselves well to make a splash.
Championship Window Is Open: Time to Push the Chips In
Despite adversity, the Cubs have thrived. But to take the next step, one that leads back to the World Series; they’ll need more than offense. They’ll need depth, reliability, and playoff-tested arms. The rotation and bullpen have done enough to survive so far, but come October, “good enough” won’t be good enough.
Jed Hoyer knows it. The front office knows it. And if the trade market cooperates, the Cubs are poised to act.
Don’t be surprised if Chicago makes one of the boldest move of the deadline.
