With the trade deadline right around the corner, some reports have indicated the Chicago Cubs are finally resigning to the fact they are going to be sellers.
Disappointing Season for the Cubs
Following expectations that they would be competing for an NL Central title this season, it has not worked out that way for the Cubs. Currently, they find themselves sitting last in the division and six games out of the final Wild Card spot entering Sunday’s contest.
Opportunities for Trades
The Cubs have the ability to trade away multiple assets and get back a haul in this market. Players like Jameson Taillon, who is generating tons of interest around the league after putting together a great year with two remaining seasons of club control, could bring back significant returns.
Potential Trades for the Cubs
Depending on how aggressive Chicago wants to be, they could explore trading some of their bullpen arms to contenders, move Cody Bellinger with an opt-out after the year, and even consider moving Ian Happ, who offers switch-hitting and Gold Glove defense that is attractive to multiple teams.
Rumors about Nico Hoerner
However, it could be Nico Hoerner who ends up being the headline trade. According to Bob Nightengale of USA TODAY, the Los Angeles Dodgers are in trade talks with the Cubs to acquire Hoerner after four of their infielders landed on the injured list.
Considerations for the Cubs
Moving on from Hoerner, the player they selected No. 24 overall in the 2018 draft and who won his first Gold Glove award last season, would be a tough decision for the Cubs. But, if the Dodgers offer some of their top prospects in exchange for Hoerner, the Cubs may have to consider the deal to benefit the franchise.
Long-Term Options
Hoerner is under contract for the next two seasons, making him a potential long-term option for the Dodgers to play alongside Mookie Betts in their infield. This could motivate them to part with some of their best minor leaguers in the trade.
Uncertainty Surrounding the Deal
There’s also a chance that the Cubs decide not to make the deal. Perhaps the Cubs’ front office sees Hoerner as a cornerstone of the roster moving forward and may opt to keep him no matter the potential return in the trade.
Additional Insights
While trades are a common occurrence leading up to the trade deadline, the decision to trade away a promising young player like Nico Hoerner, even for a package of prospects, involves weighing the short-term gains against the long-term implications for the team’s competitiveness. The Cubs will have to carefully consider all their options and make a decision that aligns with their future goals.
