Cubs’ forgotten trade target just reemerged ahead of deadline

Jed Hoyer hasn't exactly been shy about the fact that the Chicago Cubs could add a starting pitcher with a track record of being a top-of-the-rotation starting pitcher, but is currently going through some form of regression or working his way back from injury. That desire could lead the Cubs back to a target they were heavily linked to before the start of the 2024 season.

The belief prior to the 2024 season was that the Cubs were looking for a way to pry Shane Bieber away from the Cleveland Guardians. The Cubs and Guardians were frequently mentioned in trade talks that offseason; however, the sides were never able to reach an agreement.

Bieber, meanwhile, underwent Tommy John Surgery shortly after the start of the 2024 season and hasn't been seen at the Major League level since. Bieber re-upped with the Guardians this past offseason and is just about ready for his Major League return.

Through three minor-league rehab appearances over the past month, Bieber has allowed 1 run on 4 hits in 7 1/3 innings of work. More importantly, Bieber has struck out 14 of the 28 batters he has faced. A clear sign that Bieber is ready to regain his top-of-the-rotation form at the Major League level.

An old Cubs trade dream might be alive again after all

While drawing attention to one trade he would make ahead of the MLB trade deadline on Thursday, ESPN's Jeff Passan connected the Cubs to Bieber.

"Chicago needs to land at least one starting pitcher at this deadline, and the former AL Cy Young winner is very available. He still hasn't pitched in the big leagues this season, but his stuff has looked crisp during his three minor league outings, according to scouts who have seen him, and the acquisition cost won't be nearly as prohibitive as that of getting other pitchers."

With the Cubs looking to potentially add two starting pitchers ahead of the deadline, Bieber could be the secondary move. Given the injury, the asking price is likely far from what the Guardians for asking for when the two teams were discussing a move prior to the 2024 season. If Hoyer is looking to take a gamble on a pitcher returning to the production level suggested on the back of their baseball card, Bieber seemingly would be the best fit.

Bieber does hold a $16MM option for 2026, and that can't be overlooked. Short of Bieber dominating between now and the end of the season, it feels like a safe bet that he will pick up the option. Of course, on the reverse, there's a risk that Bieber struggles or suffers a setback that would all but lower the financial flexibility the Cubs have this offseason.

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