Injuries significantly impacted the Arizona Diamondbacks’ season early on, forcing the team to pivot into a sellers’ role as the MLB trade deadline approaches. This month, they are anticipated to be one of the most active teams, with notable players like Zac Gallen, Merrill Kelly, and Eugenio Suarez attracting significant attention from across the league.
The Chicago Cubs are among the teams showing interest in these players, although they will face tough competition in securing a deal. The Cubs’ strengths align well with the Diamondbacks’ needs, particularly in pitching prospects, which Arizona is prioritizing in their trade negotiations.
According to recent reports, Arizona is emphasizing the need for young arms as part of any trade agreement before July 31. Apart from the Cubs, other teams such as the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox have also expressed interest in trading discussions. This opens up opportunities for the Cubs, who have several trade chips that could meet the Diamondbacks’ criteria.
One prominent name that could be on the move is left-handed pitcher Jordan Wicks, a former first-round pick who has struggled since making his MLB debut in 2023. Wicks, who is considered a change-of-scenery candidate, possesses years of affordable team control, making him an attractive option for any potential trade partners.
Among the position players, Eugenio Suarez stands out as a highly sought-after talent. Leading the National League with 33 home runs and 81 RBIs as of Sunday, Suarez’s performance and the fact that he is in the final year of his contract may make him a key target for the Cubs as they look to strengthen their roster, particularly at third base.
The Cubs could benefit from adding either Gallen or Kelly to bolster their rotation, which currently features Matthew Boyd and Shota Imanaga. While both pitchers have proven themselves, caution is advised since Gallen has already amassed more innings this season than his totals from 2019 onward.
As the trade deadline nears, it is clear that for the Cubs to strike a deal with the Diamondbacks, they will need to offer pitching depth in return. Wicks is likely to be a focal point in these discussions, but other names could emerge in the weeks leading up to the deadline. With strategic moves, these changes could enhance the Cubs’ chances in the league, providing a method to gear up for a strong future.