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The Chicago Cubs aren't just looking for a starting pitcher they can slot near the top of their starting rotation ahead of the MLB trade deadline. They are also looking for arms they can stash at Triple-A Iowa as depth during the final two months of the season. The St. Louis Cardinals may have just gifted the Cubs a golden opportunity.
Considering his struggles this season, veteran starting pitcher Erick Fedde was likely going to have a limited trade market ahead of the deadline next week. The Cardinals didn't entertain the charade of shopping Fedde for long as the team announced on Thursday that their 2024 deadline addition has been designated for assignment.
Fedde was one of the biggest success stories of the 2024 season, returning to Major League Baseball after spending a year in the KBO. Fedde was one of the top pitchers available last season at the deadline, leading the Cardinals to acquire him as part of a three-way deal that included the Chicago White Sox and Los Angeles Dodgers. After posting a 3.30 ERA in 31 starts last season, 2025 has been a disaster for Fedde.
Before being cut loose by the Cardinals on Wednesday, Fedde had an ERA of 5.22 through 20 starts this season.
DFA shocker from rival may hand Cubs a pitching lifeline
Even with the struggles he had this season, there was no scenario where the Cardinals were going to trade Fedde to the Cubs. Fedde shouldn't be near the top of the list of pitching targets for the Cubs ahead of the deadline, but he could serve as that depth they are seeking in Triple-A.
Jed Hoyer's comments in the weeks leading up to the deadline have made it clear that the Cubs may be looking at pitchers who have struggled this season. Fedde certainly would check that box. If Fedde clears waivers, it won't be a surprise to see the Cubs are interested in adding him on a minor-league deal. That said, given the need for pitching across the league and his success last season, Fedde could find an immediate Major League opportunity elsewhere.