Exploring the Cubs’ Best Trade Chips Ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline - Bleacher Nation

What the report says

Bleacher Nation’s Jacob Zanolla assessed the Chicago Cubs’ possible trade pieces on July 23, with the MLB trade deadline less than two weeks away and set for Aug. 3. The outlet framed the Cubs as a likely buyer because of a clear need for pitching, while noting the club was seven games behind Milwaukee in the NL Central but in a strong Wild Card position.

The analysis said president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer’s deadline approach could be shaped by the Cubs’ chances of earning a first-round bye, which Bleacher Nation described as slim at the time. That context led the outlet to suggest Chicago may avoid a full-scale farm-system selloff, while still considering a significant move if it brings back pitching help, especially an arm with multiple years of control.

Among the most notable names discussed were Matt Shaw, Pedro Ramírez, Kevin Alcántara, Moisés Ballesteros, Kane Kepley, BJ Murray, Jaxon Wiggins and Ethan Conrad. Bleacher Nation highlighted Shaw’s versatility and prior trade interest, Ramírez’s production but uncertain roster fit, Alcántara’s reduced value despite Triple-A power, and Ballesteros’ offensive upside alongside defensive questions. Kepley was presented as a rising lower-level prospect whose speed, plate discipline and High-A production could draw attention.

The piece matters because it outlines how the Cubs might balance short-term postseason needs against long-term player control. Bleacher Nation’s view was that Chicago has enough intriguing talent to pursue pitching, but that higher-end prospects such as Wiggins or Conrad would likely make sense only in a deal for a more impactful, controllable starter.