The Chicago Cubs are looking to end their postseason drought, having missed October since 2020. They’re well positioned, leading the National League Central at 49-35 with a two-game lead over the Milwaukee Brewers. However, they need starting pitching and a right-handed bat at the trade deadline.
The Athletic’s MLB insider Jim Bowden says the Cubs will go all-in at the deadline and are willing to part with top prospect Owen Caissie to get deals done.
“The Cubs are going to win the trade deadline in the NL Central. They’re everywhere right now. They’re willing to part with Owen Caissie, one of their top power-hitting outfield prospects as part of the package,” Bowden, the former general manager of the Cincinnati Reds and Washington Nationals, told the “Foul Territory” podcast. “As I talk to people in the industry, they’re all in and they’re going to do what it takes to win.”
Bowden added: “In the NL Central, I feel like the Cubs are the one team that are in position to make a splash. They got the better system and willingness to give up the system at this particular trade deadline.”
The 22-year-old Caissie is currently raking in Triple-A Iowa. He has 12 home runs, 18 doubles and an .877 OPS in 65 games. MLB.com ranks him as Chicago’s top prospect and 42nd overall in baseball.
The Cubs need a right-handed bat, primarily at third base where rookie Matt Shaw has struggled offensively, and starting pitching as their rotation ranks 23rd in ERA at 4.30.
Potential targets include right-handed bats Eugenio Suarez, Taylor Ward and Alex Bregman, and pitchers Seth Lugo and Sandy Alcantara.