As the trade deadline looms, the Chicago Cubs find themselves enticed by interest from two of baseball’s most storied franchises. The Cubs’ approach—whether they will buy, sell, or hold in the days leading up to July 30—is currently uncertain. Reports suggest that many teams, including Chicago, are likely to delay their trade decisions until the dramatic final hours before the deadline.
General Manager Jed Hoyer faces challenging choices ahead. While the Cubs remain within reach of contention for a Wild Card spot, the competition is fierce. Hoyer could potentially reap significant returns by parting with some of the Cubs’ most valuable assets.
One such asset drawing attention is starting pitcher Jameson Taillon, who is currently in high demand. Taillon has been a standout performer for the Cubs this season, boasting a 7-4 record and a 3.10 ERA over 93 innings pitched.
Acquired by Hoyer in December 2022, Taillon, a former No. 2 overall draft pick, has brought experience and consistent quality starts to Chicago’s rotation.
According to a report by Bob Nightengale of USA Today, both the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees have expressed interest in acquiring Taillon before the deadline. However, the Cubs themselves have not yet decided whether they will actively seek to strengthen their roster (buy) or instead look to trade assets for future prospects (sell). Nightengale noted that discussions between the Cubs and both the Red Sox and Yankees regarding Taillon’s availability have been ongoing.
“The Boston Red Sox and Yankees have engaged in talks with the Cubs about starter Jameson Taillon, although the Cubs are still undecided on their direction as buyers or sellers,” Nightengale reported on Sunday.
Adding Taillon would provide a significant boost to either Boston or New York, both of whom are currently battling for playoff positions.
For Chicago, trading Taillon would likely signal a decision to sell and focus on rebuilding for the future. However, Hoyer will require a compelling offer from either team to consider parting ways with Taillon, as the trade deadline season remains highly unpredictable. Taillon, who turns 33 this winter, has two years remaining on his current contract with the Cubs, earning $18 million per season. While Chicago aims to enhance roster flexibility, the competitive starting pitching market suggests that other players could command significantly higher salaries, including impending free agents like Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, and Shane Bieber.
