The Chicago Cubs are shifting their focus toward building their roster for the 2025 season, and several players might be traded as next week’s deadline approaches.
Teams have until July 30 to make trades for the upcoming stretch run, and the Cubs are likely to prioritize deals that enhance their future prospects.
Here are five players who have been mentioned in trade rumors:
Cody Bellinger
Bellinger, currently on the injured list with a broken finger, has attracted interest from multiple teams. Reports suggest the Cubs have been scouting the Los Angeles Dodgers’ minor league system, possibly exploring a reunion with Bellinger. Additionally, the Philadelphia Phillies and New York Yankees have been linked to the outfielder.
Bellinger has an opt-out clause in his contract with the Cubs signed earlier this year, but if he stays, he would be under contract for two more seasons. His current injury and contract situation might affect potential trade talks, but at 29, Bellinger remains in his prime.
Nico Hoerner
Despite signing a three-year extension with the Cubs last season, Hoerner could attract interest from several teams, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The Atlanta Braves, who recently lost Ozzie Albies for at least two months, might find Hoerner an appealing addition, especially as they have called up Nacho Alvarez Jr. Hoerner has been impressive this season with four home runs, 30 RBIs, 14 stolen bases, and a .258/.338/.351 slash line. His ability to play both second and shortstop adds to his value.
Mark Leiter Jr.
Passan also mentioned Leiter as a potential trade candidate. The Cubs might look to trade some of their short-term bullpen assets, and Leiter has drawn interest from the New York Yankees and Mets, according to ESPN’s Jesse Rogers. He is under team control for at least two more seasons and has been effective since returning from the IL, with five consecutive scoreless outings and 11 strikeouts in 16 batters faced this month.
Hector Neris
Neris could be another valuable relief pitcher on the trade market. He has not allowed a run in his last nine appearances, giving up just five hits and four walks, with 12 strikeouts and four saves. He has an option in his contract that activates if he appears in 60 games or finishes 45 games in the 2024 season; he has played in 37 games so far this year with an 8-2 record.
Jameson Taillon
Taillon has drawn trade interest from the Boston Red Sox and Yankees, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale. With a 7-4 record and a 3.10 ERA this season, and two years remaining on his contract at $18 million per season, Taillon could be a sought-after asset.