Cubs’ Pitching Struggles and Strategies

The Chicago Cubs are focusing on bolstering their pitching lineup before the trade deadline on August 3. The strategy involves making gradual additions instead of major moves. Recently, the Cubs brought back veteran left-hander Drew Pomeranz, opting for reliability over headline-grabbing trades.

Jed Hoyer, the Cubs’ President, remarked on the difficulty of securing trades at this time. “There aren’t many teams ready to make significant player moves right now,” Hoyer said before the Cubs faced the Cardinals at Wrigley Field. “Small moves to fill gaps are our current focus. We aim to find a reliable contributor through these acquisitions.”

The need for effective pitching was starkly visible when the Cardinals overpowered the Cubs 17-1. This game featured new acquisition David Peterson, who struggled, allowing 10 runs in less than four innings. Bryse Wilson, another recent addition, gave up seven runs in relief. Several of the Cubs’ key pitchers are on the injured list, complicating their roster strategy.

The Cubs acquired Peterson amidst other injuries, as starters Ben Brown and Edward Cabrera went on the injured list. The trade intensified Cubs’ talks for targeted reinforcements. Yet, only a few teams have fallen well out of playoff contention, leaving most teams undecided on their buying or selling stance for the deadline.

This year’s trade deadline is unique due to a potential offseason lockout affecting the 2027 season. “Evaluating long-term player control is a decision each team faces,” Hoyer noted, suggesting organizations will have various strategies for near-future trades.

Pomeranz, a familiar asset for the Cubs, brings experience and potential value. The Cubs utilized him before through a minor league deal with the Mariners and are hopeful he will regain his 2025 form, where he posted strong performance statistics. His return comes as Hoby Milner, another left-hander, recovers from surgery.

Manager Craig Counsell emphasized Pomeranz’s potential contribution. “We think Drew can perform as he did previously, with minor adjustments.”

Aside from pitching challenges, the Cubs celebrated Pete Crow-Armstrong’s success. He earned the National League Player of the Month for June, displaying standout performance statistics in hitting and base running. Crow-Armstrong modestly spoke about the award, focusing on his ongoing development and admiration for peers like Tampa Bay’s Junior Caminero.