Cubs can't ignore one major Michael Soroka red flag if they consider an offseason reunion

With a need for pitching, the Chicago Cubs aren't in a position where they can rule out anything before free agency starts. It's why they have been linked to Tarik Skubal, and it's why there likely will be some conversation within the front office about potentially reuniting with Michael Soroka this offseason.

The Cubs' decision to trade for Soroka at the 2025 trade deadline was one of the more polarizing moments of the past two years for Jed Hoyer. Soroka's velocity had dropped over his last three starts with the Washington Nationals before the trade, and two innings into his debut with the Cubs, he was sidelined with a shoulder injury.

Soroka made his way back in September of that year, pitching out of the bullpen. To his credit, he did post a 1.08 ERA through six appearances but the whole experience felt tarnished, considering it was apparent the Cubs' vetting of Soroka before the trade was negligent.

Soroka signed a one-year deal with the Arizona Diamondbacks last offseason, and throughout year, provided glimpses of why the Cubs were a fan of his profile. He posted 3.41 ERA across 22 appearances, striking out over 24% of the hitters he faced.

He has a mutual option for the 2027 season, but considering the success, it would seem likely that he hits the free-agent market. Which then opens the door to the question of if the Cubs should consider a reunion with the former first-round pick?

Cubs may be tempted by Michael Soroka reunion but one concern makes it a dangerous bet

It's an easy answer, no. Of course, the Cubs ignored the warning signs last time, so there's a chance they choose to do so once again this winter.

The problem that has followed Soroka throughout his entire career is health. Health was still an issue last year, considering he only pitched 116 innings. It was only the second time in his career that he surpassed 100 innings pitched in a season.

Soroka was sidelined for multiple weeks on two separate occasions with the Diamondbacks; once with a glute injury, and another instance of dealing with shoulder inflammation. Part of the concern is that Soroka has had these bouts with shoulder inflammation, but the MRI has been clean. It would seem that there could be a larger issue around the corner, and that is the risk that would come with signing him.

There's no need for the Cubs to go down the Soroka path once again, he's one to avoid.

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