Cubs Window Wider Than Elite Ace Market, Say Trade Analysts

The Chicago Cubs' quest to upgrade their starting rotation this offseason has bumped up against a familiar reality: the very best pitchers often come with asking prices well above what most teams can reasonably afford. Industry observers suggest that while a pitcher of Tarik Skubal's caliber might be theoretically available, the Cubs would likely be better served shopping among secondary tiers of starting talent.

The Skubal question looms large. Skubal has emerged as one of baseball's elite lefties and would represent a transformational addition to any rotation. However, landing a pitcher of that profile typically requires either a blockbuster package of young assets or absorbing additional salary that stretches team resources. For the Cubs, pursuing such a deal might not represent the optimal use of their trade capital.

Depth over star power may be the play. Instead of gambling on acquiring a bonafide ace, the Cubs could find better value by acquiring solid starting pitchers from the second and third tiers. This approach allows them to address multiple rotation needs without gutting their prospect system or committing exorbitant payroll. It's a more conservative but often more sustainable path to competitive balance.

Patience could pay dividends. Rather than overpay now for an elite arm, the Cubs might be better positioned to strike on undervalued talent or players whose leverage has diminished for other reasons. The trade market has a long offseason ahead, and prices sometimes shift as negotiations develop. For a team with the Cubs' resources, waiting for the right price on secondary options may yield better returns than chasing Skubal or similar stars.

Source: original report ↗