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Cubs Setting Sights on Orioles' $40M Starter at MLB Trade Deadline

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sterling Bennett | Last updated Jun 11, 2025 10:00 AM ET

The Chicago Cubs are positioning themselves as buyers at the July 31st trade deadline. Despite holding a five-game lead atop the NL Central, the front office knows that maintaining momentum through the second half will require upgrades on the mound.

Chicago’s pitching staff has battled consistency issues all season, primarily due to injuries to lefties Justin Steele and Shoto Imanaga. Although their offense ranks second in runs scored, the Cubs' starting rotation has fallen to 19th in the league, according to FanGraphs.

President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer acknowledged the front office is actively exploring trade possibilities and may already have their eyes on a top arm on the trade block.

According to Cubs insider George Ofman, Chicago has its sights set on Baltimore Orioles starter Zach Eflin, and the team is set to take a look at the veteran on Wednesday during his scheduled start against the Detroit Tigers. Ofman did not say if the Cubs are sending scouts to watch Eflin in person, but their interest is legitimate.

Eflin, 31, has a 5-2 record with a 4.47 ERA, striking out 31 and walking just eight in 46.1 innings over eight starts with the Orioles in 2025. Although his ERA is higher than usual, he remains a dependable innings-eater with postseason experience and a proven ability to compete against high-caliber lineups.

For a Cubs rotation that has dealt with key injuries, acquiring a veteran like Eflin could bring both leadership and consistency. Adding a pitcher of his caliber would signal that Chicago is serious about contending now and give them a top pitching tandem in hopes of snapping a modest four-year playoff drought.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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