Cubs Rumors: Insider connects bullpen need to emerging Mets' trade chip

The impression remains the New York Mets will be a trade partner with the Chicago Cubs once again before the trade deadline. The two teams came together on a deal earlier this season involving David Peterson, and given the need the Cubs still have in the rotation, one of Freddy Peralta or Clay Holmes make sense as a follow-up move.

The Cubs also have a need in the bullpen. Phil Maton likely won't be pitching in innings of consequence for the rest of this season, and Daniel Palencia's timeline is murky. Internal help is on the way with Hoby Milner expected back around the start of August, and potential returns of Ben Brown and Justin Steele in September.

That said, adding help at the deadline feels like a require box for Jed Hoyer and Carter Hawkins to check. Considering the deadline is pushed back to August 3, it's been slower rumor mill. Sure, there's endless stories on what the Cubs need, but very few have connected the Cubs to actual names.

The latest from The Athletic's Patrick Mooney suggest that's about the change. Once again talking about how the Cubs need pitching, in their rotation and bullpen, Mooney points the arrow toward Mets relief pitcher Luke Weaver.

Luke Weaver could answer a major need in the Cubs' bullpen

Weaver was among the veteran relief pitchers the Cubs were interested in during the offseason, and while Mooney cautious that big swings in the bullpen isn't exactly a theme of Hoyer's tenure, Weaver could be an exception at the deadline.

Weaver inked a two-year deal with the Mets, one of the reasons why he didn't land with the Cubs. The added year of control would almost certainly mean the Cubs would have to give up a prospect or two of consequence.

That said, Weaver would be a more affordable option than trading for one of Mason Miller or Josh Hader. In 39 appearances with the Mets this season, Weaver has an ERA of 1.98 while striking out over 27% of the hitters he's faced. He could step in an immediately be considered the Cubs' closer, or if that role is still ticketed for Palencia, Weaver has thrived a high-leverage option in recent years.

Not to mention, Weaver being under contract for the 2027 season wouldn't hurt. As is the case with the starting rotation, the bullpen will be overhaul during the offseason. Having Weaver in place would be a step in the right direction.

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