Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the Chicago Cubs selling off players at the trade deadline?
The Cubs sit at 50-51, 8.5 games out of first place after an 11-game losing streak. With the Brewers holding a big division lead and the NL wild card spots essentially locked up, trading expiring contracts for future assets became a certainty rather than a question.
Who have the Cubs already traded ahead of the deadline?
The Cubs traded left-fielder Joc Pederson to Atlanta on July 15 for minor league slugger Bryce Ball. They also sent reliever Andrew Chafin to the Athletics for outfielder Greg Deichmann and right-hander Daniel Palencia.
Is this Cubs sell-off the start of a long rebuild?
General Manager Jed Hoyer said this will not be a rebuild by any definition. The expectation is a faster retooling similar to what the Red Sox did after winning the World Series in 2018.
What kind of trade return can the Cubs expect for Craig Kimbrel?
Kimbrel is having one of the best seasons of his career with a 0.49 ERA and 23 of 25 saves converted, making him the top closer available at the deadline. The Cubs can realistically expect a top-5 prospect plus a potential additional top-10 prospect in any deal.
Why are the Cubs holding on to Javier Baez instead of trading him?
The Cubs believe they can market their future around Javy, giving him and Willson Contreras a chance to show they can still perform at superstar levels and keep fans engaged. A strong finish could also set up Baez to earn a contract to return to Chicago long-term.