Cubs Are Exploring Multiple Trade Options to Improve Starting Rotation

The Chicago Cubs shook up baseball on Friday by adding former Houston Astros star Kyle Tucker. Despite the huge news and most-anticipated addition to the lineup since the days of Kris Bryant, the Cubs kept coming up in rumors and reports. In fact, the Cubs have reportedly been searching for a third baseman, more starting pitching, and relief pitching. 

According to different reports, the Cubs are interested in Seattle Mariners' starter Luis Castillo and Miami Marlins' starter Jesus Luzardo. 

Castillo is due nearly $70 million in guaranteed money, and would likely require the Cubs parting ways with Nico Hoerner in a potential trade. Matt Shaw and James Triantos are thought to be ready for big-league action, but depleting their infield beyond Issac Paredes becomes an interesting dilemma. This option feels less likely now, with Shaw able to, ideally, slide over to third base. 

If the Cubs are willing to evade a balance of right- and left-handed starters, Miami’s Jesus Luzardo is an option that should excite Cubs fans. 

Per reports, the likely price for Luzardo would include either Owen Caissie or the aforementioned Triantos. Both are young and controllable bats, something the Marlins are reportedly seeking. Perhaps a James Triantos-led package could get the 27-year-old Luzardo to the north side of Chicago. 

There is a real debate in terms of these two pitchers the Cubs are targeting. Castillo is a beacon of consistency, pitching 522.2 innings over the last three seasons. That said, the righty is 32 and could be under contract for four more seasons with his option in the final year of his contract. As for Luzardo, the ceiling appears to be endless, but a history of injuries generates concern long-term. Luzardo was insanely good in 2023, but took a step back in 2024 before injuries ended his season. There are plenty of pros and cons for both pitchers that the Cubs will have to weigh. 

Regardless of which way the Cubs go, both pitchers will surely be an upgrade in the starting rotation. Jed Hoyer means business this offseason, pushing hard to improve the roster for a potential playoff run in 2025.