The Chicago Cubs are playing some of the best baseball in the MLB this season, thanks in no small part to their offense, which has been among the most potent and deepest in the league. Their lineup has the ability to go toe-to-toe with anyone, producing runs at an impressive clip. However, when it comes to pitching, the Cubs have some serious concerns. Their bullpen could certainly use some reinforcements, and the starting rotation is in rough shape, primarily due to a series of injuries that have impacted key players.
For the Cubs to become true World Series contenders and a favorite to represent the National League, they’ll need to make some significant moves at the trade deadline to improve their pitching staff. But one key factor could be outside of their control: a potential collapse by the Arizona Diamondbacks.
The Diamondbacks’ Struggles
At the start of the 2024 season, the Arizona Diamondbacks, like the Cubs, had postseason aspirations. With a young and talented roster, they were viewed as an up-and-coming team in the NL. However, as of Tuesday’s action, the Diamondbacks are sitting at a disappointing 32-34 record, well below expectations. While it’s true that there’s still time left in the season for them to turn things around, their current trajectory looks bleak, especially with the tough competition they face in the NL West.
One of the key reasons for Arizona’s struggles is the loss of ace Corbin Burnes, who is now out for the rest of the year. Burnes’ absence has left a massive hole in the Diamondbacks’ rotation, and without their top pitcher, they’ve been struggling to get consistent performances from the rest of their staff. Add to that the fact that many of their players are underperforming, and it’s clear that Arizona is in a tough spot. Given the strength of their division rivals, such as the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants, it’s hard to see how the Diamondbacks will make a serious run for a playoff spot this year.
How the Cubs Could Benefit
If Arizona’s struggles continue, it could have a big impact on the Cubs’ trade deadline strategy. The Diamondbacks, with their talented roster but faltering performance, could be in sell mode as the trade deadline approaches. This would open up an opportunity for Chicago to acquire key pitching help. With their offense already one of the best in the league, bolstering their pitching staff would make the Cubs one of the most well-rounded teams in the NL.
Whether it’s adding a starting pitcher to stabilize their rotation or strengthening the bullpen for the stretch run, a trade with a team like Arizona could give the Cubs the pitching depth they need to make a serious World Series push. The Cubs are already competitive, but with a bit of added pitching firepower, they could truly become one of the favorites to win the NL.
The Road Ahead
For the Cubs, the dream trade deadline scenario depends on Arizona’s collapse. If the Diamondbacks fail to turn their season around and enter rebuild mode, they could become sellers at the deadline, offering valuable assets that the Cubs could capitalize on. Chicago’s window to contend is wide open, but they need pitching depth to truly compete at the highest level. If Arizona falters and the Cubs make the right moves, this could be the year they not only return to the postseason but make a deep run—potentially all the way to the World Series.