Cubs' biggest trade deadline mistake would be chasing this Marlins' rental

Outside of adding a starting pitcher before the 2026 trade deadline, the Chicago Cubs likely have their sights set on adding another high-leverage option to the bullpen. The Miami Marlins could be a trade partner for the Cubs in their search for rotation help, but when it comes to the bullpen, there is one potential target that the Cubs should stay far away from.

Pete Fairbanks was a free-agent closer the Cubs were connected to last offseason, but for a variety of reasons, the fit never appeared to be straightforward. There was the impression that Fairbanks preferred warm weather, and that wouldn't have been an exact fit for the Cubs, considering the unknown that is Wrigley Field in April and May.

A former All-Star closer with Tampa Bay Rays, Fairbanks remained in Florida, inking a one-year deal with he Marlins. For a Marlins team that suddenly looks like a seller, Fairbanks is a clear trade candidate, considering he's an impending free agent.

On paper, this is where the Cubs would be mentioned as a potential fit. Fear over the cold weather likely isn't a part of the equation, and, in theory, Fairbanks would give Craig Counsell another high-leverage option in the bullpen.

Pete Fairbanks would be a case of buyer's remorse for the Cubs at 2026 trade deadline

The problem is that Fairbanks has struggled this season with the Marlins. Through 34 appearances this season, Fairbanks has an ERA of 7.18. With a FIP of 5.38, and walking nearly 10% of the hitters he's faced this season, there is no indication that a change of scenery would help Fairbanks' cause for the final two months of the season.

Specifically, for the Cubs, there's been an alarming dip in Fairbanks' groundball rate. The mark sits at 42.9% for his career, but this season, it's fallen to 22.2%. While he is striking out nearly 30% of the hitters he's faced this season, that just about the only metric that would appeal to the Cubs.

It may not be the most attractive option, but the guess is that the Cubs find another Andrew Kittredge type, as opposed to chasing someone with the pedigree of Fairbanks.

There were a handful of high-leverage relief pitchers moved at the deadline last summer, but the Cubs settled for Kittredge. The move was a success, considering Kittredge posted an ERA of 3.32 in 23 appearances with the Cubs at the end of the season and became a high-leverage option for Counsell in the postseason.

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