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MLB rumors: Jeff Passan thinks Cubs must consider trading these 2 star prospects in Tarik Skubal trade
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- MLB rumors: Jeff Passan thinks Cubs must consider trading these 2 star prospects in Tarik Skubal trade
MLB rumors: Jeff Passan thinks Cubs must consider trading these 2 star prospects in Tarik Skubal trade appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here .
The Chicago Cubs have built their roster around going on a deep playoff run. But their current pitching situation may require some extra reinforcements.
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By trading for back-to-back Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal , the Cubs would fix their issue with arguably the best pitcher in baseball. However, trading for Skubal won't come cheap. Still, even if it costs Matt Shaw and Moises Ballesteros , ESPN's Jeff Passan argues the Cubs must consider it .
"So, yeah, if Skubal costs Matt Shaw, it's the price to pay. If Detroit would prefer Moises Ballesteros, so be it. If the Tigers want both, it shouldn't be dismissed outright," Passan said. "Of all the teams in this tier, the Cubs have the most to gain by adding Skubal."
Shaw ranked as Chicago's No. 1 overall prospect in 2025, via MLB Pipeline. Over his 168 games in the major leagues thus far, the infielder/outfielder has hit .230 with 16 home runs, 56 RBIs and 20 stolen bases. Ballesteros ranked fourth on that same list. His first 214 games in the major leagues have resulted in a .250 batting average with eight home runs and 31 RBIs.
As the Cubs think about the future of their offense, they'd hope Shaw and Ballesteros become crucial contributors. But if either one, or in a package deal, can help land Skubal, Chicago may have to change course.
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The Tigers ace is still working his way back from an elbow injury. But before going down, he held a 2.70 ERA and a 45/6 K/BB ratio. After seeing him win Cy Young twice in a row, the Cubs know he would give their rotation a supreme boost.
What'll take to acquire Skubal is yet to be seen. But the Cubs must be prepared to pay up if they want to boost their World Series chances.
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