Cubs’ David Peterson drops bold claim after Mets trade

The Chicago Cubs recently acquired David Peterson from the New York Mets in a trade. While Peterson has struggled this season, the left-handed pitcher was an All-Star in 2025. He believes he can get back to that form with Chicago.

“Excitement for the new opportunity,” Peterson said on Friday, via Jesse Rogers of ESPN. “Some shock in the moment…I feel good, healthy. I went through some things early in the year I needed to clean up. (Feel) better now. Feel like myself back in ’24 and ’25.”

If Peterson really does feel like he did in 2025, this trade could be a steal for the Cubs.  While the 30-year-old was not dominant — he ended up pitching to a 4.22 ERA — he was reliable overall. In 2024, Peterson was quite good across 21 outings as well, as he turned in a 2.90 ERA.

The Cubs just need another arm in their rotation. Chicago’s pitching has been decimated by injuries this year. Even if Peterson is not on top of his game, he will make an impact for Chicago. Of course, in an ideal scenario for Chicago, Peterson will perform well on the mound.

The Cubs are set to enter their game on Friday night against the Milwaukee Brewers with a 44-37 record. Chicago is 6.5 games behind Milwaukee for first place in the National League Central standings.

Colin Rea will pitch for the Cubs on Friday night while Peterson is set to make his Chicago debut on Saturday.

First pitch for Friday night’s game is scheduled for 7:45 PM ET. Peterson’s debut is scheduled for Saturday night at 7:10 PM ET in Milwaukee.