Cubs Analysis After the Trade Deadline: Are They Real Contenders?
The Chicago team, the Cubs, remained cautious in the MLB free agency market, opting for targeted improvements instead of major signings, unlike some of their direct rivals in the National League. The Philadelphia Phillies, the New York Mets, and the San Diego Padres bolstered their teams with high-level closers, while the Cubs focused on acquiring relievers and a starter with an eye to the future.The question now is: Will the current Cubs roster be enough to compete with the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central Division? Do they have the necessary team to aim for the championship in a National League full of talent? To answer these questions, Alofoke Deportes consulted a panel of MLB experts: a coach, an executive, and a scout.It’s difficult to watch other teams you compete with get really good players, but those aren’t decisions you make in the moment. Those are decisions you make over the week and the month. It takes some discipline, especially at a time when you see things moving that way, but we were able to stay focused and feel really good about the additions we were able to make.
Carter Hawkins, Cubs General Manager
Opener Rotation
The Cubs’ starting rotation has been a focus of attention, ranking 14th in terms of earned run average (ERA). Injuries have significantly affected the team, including the absence of Justin Steele for the rest of the season, as well as Shota Imanaga and Jameson Taillon, who have been out with injuries. The arrival of Mike Soroka, coming from the Nationals, was marred by an injury that forced him to leave his first start with the Cubs. Imanaga and Matthew Boyd seem to be the safest options for the postseason rotation.The executive expressed concern about the lack of an additional starting pitcher, although he believes the team has the potential to reach October. The coach highlighted the importance of Imanaga and the possibility of facing other pitchers.The problem is their pitching: They have playoff starters in Imanaga and Boyd (I like Boyd, but he has a history of injuries and fatigue). Others like Cade Horton and Colin Rea may have a good game, but I’m not sure you’d feel comfortable giving them the ball in a Game 3.
Scout
Relief Pitchers
The Cubs’ bullpen ranks 12th in the league in terms of effectiveness. The additions of Taylor Rogers and Andrew Kittredge seek to strengthen this area. The arrival of these pitchers with different pitching profiles, specifically with the use of sinkerballs, is key for the team.The scout pointed out that, although the bullpen has been reinforced, there are still weak points. The executive expressed doubts about the team’s ability to win a long series in October. The coach highlighted the importance of left-handed relievers.They’re guys who have a different release profile. It really helps give our bullpen new looks. Hopefully, our defense can help them too.
Dansby Swanson
Offensive
The Cubs’ offense has been a highlight for much of the season, although it has experienced a recent slump. The team did not seek a third baseman in the free agency market, opting to acquire Willi Castro, a versatile player. Castro has already proven his worth by playing in multiple positions in his early days with the team, giving rest to the starters.The scout highlighted the team’s good offense and the importance of speed in the playoffs. The executive emphasized the team’s tremendous offense, which makes them a difficult opponent in the playoffs. The coach pointed out that the team is vulnerable against left-handed pitchers.I think it fills another need. We really didn’t have that… I’m never surprised by the deadline. He adds to what we have here.
Dansby Swanson
