The MLB trade deadline is less than two weeks away, and the Chicago Cubs are seriously hunting for some arms to boost their rotation and bullpen. While everyone’s talking about big names like Tarik Skubal or Mason Miller, those guys are gonna cost a fortune. But hold up, an ex-MLB GM just dropped a bombshell, pointing to a much more realistic, yet still HUGE, upgrade for the Cubs.
Robbie Ray: The ‘Perfect’ Target Chicago Needs
Former MLB GM Jim Bowden from The Athletic is calling San Francisco Giants lefty Robbie Ray the “perfect” trade target for the Cubs this summer. And honestly, it makes a ton of sense. Bowden said it himself, “The Cubs need to keep trying to upgrade their rotation,” and Ray, who hits free agency this offseason, would be a “solid get” for Chicago. Look, getting a top-tier pitcher like Joe Ryan would be sweet, but Ray is a move that could actually happen.
Why so perfect? Ray, 34 years old, is playing out a five-year, $115 million contract that wraps up after the 2026 season. That means he’s essentially a rental starter, and because of his age and current deal, the Giants aren’t gonna be able to demand a king’s ransom for him. Cubs GM Jed Hoyer could snag this dude at a super reasonable price tag. Don’t let the “cheaper” talk fool you, though. This season, Ray’s rocking a 3.33 ERA with 96 strikeouts over 110.2 innings through 20 outings. His 120 ERA+ tells you he’s dealing! This is his best season since he bagged the Cy Young award back in 2021. While he might not be winning another award this year, he’s been a very solid pitcher and would be a serious upgrade for that Cubs rotation. He’s affordable, realistic, and high-quality, exactly what they need, and unlike the uncertainty around other big names, the Giants are actually likely to move him.
What This Means for the Stretch Run
So, what’s next? The deadline is closing fast. The Cubs have a chance to bring in a proven veteran like Ray who can instantly stabilize their rotation. Getting him for a reasonable price, as a rental, could be the savvy move that puts them in a much stronger position. It’s time for Jed Hoyer to pull the trigger and bring this “perfect” piece to Chicago!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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