Cubs Acquire David Peterson to Strengthen Rotation

The Chicago Cubs made a strategic move to enhance their pitching roster by acquiring pitcher David Peterson from the New York Mets. Peterson, once an All-Star for the Mets in 2025, has seen a decline in his performance, losing his spot in the rotation by April. As of June 23, his ERA stands at 6.09, and he has a negative WAR, with six losses attributed to him out of the Mets’ 44 in the NL East.

Peterson, now 30, has become a crucial addition to the Cubs’ pitching staff, following injuries to pitchers Ben Brown and Edward Cabrera. These injuries occurred over two days and posed a threat to the Cubs’ bid for a playoff position. The Cubs, currently holding a 43-37 record, trail the first-place Milwaukee Brewers by seven games in the National League Central. They occupy the NL’s third Wild Card spot if the season ended today.

The trade involves Cole Mathis, a 22-year-old minor league first baseman/designated hitter, who carried an .860 OPS in 25 games at High-A South Bend. Mathis was a promising figure in the Cubs’ minor league system.

Despite a tough 2026, Peterson offers potential for the Cubs. His 3.85 Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) closely aligns with his career average of 3.91. This suggests he may benefit from the Cubs’ defense, reputedly stronger than the Mets’. Known for his ability to induce ground balls, Peterson had set career highs in innings, strikeouts, and starts during 2025.

Peterson’s experience in the bullpen adds value. In 2024, during the Mets’ run to the National League Championship Series, he made four out of five postseason appearances in relief, maintaining a 2.92 ERA. Currently, the Cubs’ starting rotation is left with Shota Imanaga, Colin Rea, and Javier Assad, with Matthew Boyd expected to return from the injured list on June 25.