What Are the Best Cubs Trades to Make Right Now?

With the trade deadline approaching, Chicago Cubs fans are asking: what are the best Cubs trades to make right now? The front office faces pressure to balance long-term development with short-term wins, and the right moves could shape the franchise’s future. Here’s a breakdown of realistic, high-impact trades the Cubs could pursue to strengthen their roster before the deadline.

Midseason Upgrades: Where the Cubs Need Help

The Cubs’ biggest weaknesses this season are depth in the bullpen and a lack of reliable left-handed pitching. While the rotation has been solid, injuries to key relievers have exposed a thin bullpen corps. A controllable lefty arm could stabilize late-game situations, and a proven setup man would ease the load on closer Rowan Wick. The Cubs also need a power bat off the bench to pinch-hit in high-leverage spots.

Chicago Cubs pitcher in mid-delivery, representing the team's need for bullpen reinforcements

Realistic Targets: Who Fits the Cubs’ Needs?

Several mid-tier relievers and platoon bats are available without mortgaging the farm. Look for teams like the Mets, Reds, or Marlins to move relievers like Drew Smith, Alexis Díaz, or Andrew Wantz—all of whom throw hard and could thrive in Wrigley’s hitter-friendly confines. For a left-handed bat, the Cubs could target corner outfielders like Lane Thomas or corner infielders like Josh VanMeter, both of whom provide power off the bench.

Bullpen Arms Worth Pursuing

Drew Smith (Mets) – A 6’8” righty with a 95+ mph fastball and a wipeout slider, Smith has been dominant in high-leverage spots for New York.
Alexis Díaz (Reds) – Cincinnati’s closer has a 1.89 ERA and 12.5 K/9, making him a prime rental candidate.
Andrew Wantz (Angels) – A ground-ball specialist with a 3.45 ERA, Wantz could eat innings in middle relief.

Platoon Bats to Bolster the Bench

Lane Thomas (Nationals) – A right-handed hitter with 15+ HR power and a .260 average, Thomas could spell Christopher Morel in the outfield.
Josh VanMeter (Diamondbacks) – A switch-hitter with power off the bench, VanMeter has experience at first and third base.

Cost vs. Benefit: What’s the Right Move?

The Cubs should avoid overpaying for rental players, but they can afford to part with a mid-level prospect for a proven reliever. A package like minor-league infielder Ed Howard or outfielder Owen Caissie could land Smith or Díaz, while a lower-tier arm like Jordan Wicks could net a bench bat like Thomas. The key is targeting players who fit the Cubs’ timeline—veterans who can help in 2024 without blocking young talent.

Long-Term vs. Short-Term: How to Balance the Approach

While the Cubs need to contend now, they also can’t mortgage the future. Trading for a rental reliever is low-risk, but overpaying for a bat could hurt the farm system. The best path is to prioritize controllable arms and depth pieces over one-year stopgaps. If the Cubs land a lefty reliever and a bench bat, they’ll improve their odds without sacrificing future flexibility.

The trade deadline is a chess match, and the Cubs’ next moves will define their 2024 push. By targeting specific needs—bullpen depth and left-handed power—they can make smart, cost-effective deals that keep them in contention without derailing the rebuild. The clock is ticking, and the right trades could turn a good team into a great one.