Perfect trade Cubs must make during 2025 Spring Training
Here is one perfect seven-year player trade that the Chicago Cubs should swing during the 2025 Spring Training period.
With their pitchers and catchers already in camp, the 2025 spring training period has begun for the Chicago Cubs. Speculation has already begun whether Japanese ace Shota Imanaga will pitch during the Tokyo Series next month. Spoiler alert, he will, according to Cubs manager Craig Counsell. Entering their skipper’s second season at the helm, Chicago will look to make it back to the postseason this year.
President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer is now in the last year of his contract. He’s already made one massive trade this offseason, acquiring superstar outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros. The package of players he sent back in return included top prospect Cam Smith, third baseman Isaac Paredes and pitcher Hayden Wesneski. With third base now open, the hope is that another rising minor leaguer, Matt Shaw, will take over the spot during camp.
There are still avenues in which Hoyer could improve the team. Their pitching staff could use more major-league ready talent and adding another bat that can contribute every day would be good as well. As presently constructed, the Cubbies could make the playoffs. However, they might not make it that far. If Hoyer wants a new deal, a long postseason run might be required. If that’s the case, then here’s one perfect seven-player trade that they can swing with the soon-to-be home residents of Sin City, the Athletics.
Cubs looking to make return to postseason in 2025
Hoyer’s current contract situation does make this season a critical one. Furthermore, ownership would like to see more progress on the field under Counsell, who is currently the highest-paid manager in the majors. The Tucker trade is proof that the Cubs want to take that next step. Yet, it’s apparent that more talent is needed. If they can add two or three contributors, ones that will contribute at least 1-3 WAR a piece, would be ideal.
Putting together a deal that includes that many players can be tough. However, getting on the phone with the A’s might do the Cubs some good. The reasons for this are multiple. First, even though the team wants to get back to the postseason, they are also looking to cut payroll. The Athletics need to add payroll to avoid potential grievances from the MLBPA. Second, both teams have depth that could help out the other. Lastly, the A’s are more willing to make moves before their move to Las Vegas in a couple years. Bringing in more established major league talent plus young pieces would be a good thing.
In this proposed deal, the Cubs would acquire outfielder JJ Bleday, starting pitcher JP Sears and closer Mason Miller for four players: outfielders Seiya Suzuki and Owen Caissie plus starting pitchers Jameson Taillon and Ben Brown. A possible fifth piece from Chicago to the Athletics could really push this deal over the edge, but in a perfect world, this is how it would look.
