It was only a matter of time before the Chicago Cubs’ starting rotation started to feel the effects of missing its two aces in Justin Steele and Shota Imanaga. That time has officially come, and it may be time for Chicago to explore its options on the trade market.
The trio of Matthew Boyd, Colin Rea and Ben Brown combined to allow 18 runs in just 13 1/3 innings pitched in the Cubs weekend series against the Reds. Poor pitching performances such as those are going to cost Chicago a postseason appearance if things do not quickly change.
Here are three starting pitchers the Cubs should target prior to the trade deadline.
Kevin Gausman, Toronto Blue Jays
Gausman is the ace on a Blue Jays team that looks to be a bit stuck. It is unclear if they are going to try and contend in the AL East this season, but if Toronto decides to make moves, Gausman could be a prime trade candidate for the Cubs.
He’s been an extremely reliable pitcher over the past four seasons, as he’s made over 30 starts and finished with a season ERA under 3.85 in each of those seasons. Last season, he led MLB with two complete games, including a complete-game shutout.
Gausman could join the Cubs rotation and replace Ben Brown, who has a 6.39 ERA in 10 starts this season. With a proven and trusted arm like Gausman in the rotation, the Cubs rotation depth is among the best in baseball when Imanaga returns from his injury.
Kevin Gausman’s 2Ks in the 5th…and Sword.
pic.twitter.com/AAalAM7kcC
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) May 26, 2025
Zac Gallen, Arizona Diamondbacks
This may seem a little far-fetched, but when really looking at it, it may be more of a possibility then some would think. Gallen is in the last year of his contract with the Diamondbacks and with their recent struggles, he could be on the move if they continue.
He is having a down year, with a 5.25 ERA in 11 starts and 61 2/3 innings pitched. He’s allowed 14 runs and four home runs across his last three starts, causing the inflation in his season ERA.
Arizona’s season-long chase of the Dodgers, Padres and Giants, combined with Gallen being in the final year of his contract, make him a prime trade target and someone the Cubs should target if the Diamondbacks give any kind of notion that the three-time Cy Young finalist is available.
Zac Gallen, Dirty Knuckle Curves…and Sword.
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) April 3, 2025
Yusei Kikuchi, Los Angeles Angels
Kikuchi has been one of the lone bright spots on an Angels team that probably isn’t going to the playoffs this year. He leads Los Angeles with a 3.17 ERA and ranks 12th among AL pitchers with a 1.6 WAR.
One major problem for Kikuchi this season has been his walks. He leads MLB with 30 walks, which has played a big part in his 1.49 WHIP.
If he is able to cut down on the free passes, Kikuchi could be an important piece for the Cubs rotation and could help them win the NL Central and get back to the postseason for the first time since 2020.
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