The Chicago Cubs are one of the most dominant teams in the National League. Led by the sixth-ranked offense, Chicago has secured a modest five-game advantage in the NL Central and is showing no signs of slowing down.
Despite the success, injuries have decimated their starting rotation, creating a lack of top-tier arms capable of dominating in the postseason. While Shota Imanaga is on track to return sometime later this month, the Cubs cannot solely rely on him.
President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer said as much to the media earlier this week by revealing the team is in the “information gathering stage.” Although he did not list potential trade targets, it is apparent that the Cubs intend to play at the top of the trade market.
One starting pitcher who would fill Chicago’s need for a proven postseason ace is Texas Rangers’ Nathan Eovaldi.
Eovaldi has been on the injured list since May 29 due to a triceps injury, but the 35-year-old is eligible to return on Friday. If proven to be healthy, Eovaldi may be the most overlooked pitcher potentially on the trade block.
The former two-time All-Star leads MLB with a 1.56 ERA, 0.808 WHIP, and one shutout across 69.1 innings. He may not have the name value of Sandy Alcantara or Zach Gallen, but his track record is far better, especially in the playoffs.
Touting a 9-3 record and 3.05 career ERA, Eovaldi has been a steady presence in each of his three trips to the postseason. Placing him at the top of a group consisting of Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, and Matthew Boyd would give Chicago a formidable starting rotation in the playoffs.
The hang-up in acquiring Eovaldi is his three-year, $75M contract signed through 2027 and his no-trade clause. Eovaldi could be reluctant to leave Texas, knowing it is his birthplace, and after just signing a new deal. However, with the Rangers dangerously close to last place, he may value a chance at winning a third World Series trophy over comfort.
If the Cubs are serious about contending this season, they will embrace an all-in mentality at the deadline. Eovaldi’s history of postseason success might be enough to push them over the top.
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