Cubs GM's comments on the trade deadline shows the team is open for business

A 2-4 homestand to open the second half sealed the fate of a Chicago Cubs team that, since early May, has looked listless. Despite stellar starting pitching and, more recently, a bullpen that's leveled out to be one of the best in the game, a lackluster offense incapable of hitting with runners in scoring position torpedoed any chance of this team playing in October.

Poised to, at the very least, soft-sell at the trade deadline, Jed Hoyer and Carter Hawkins have reportedly already fielded calls on several key players, including Jameson Taillon, Hector Neris, Mark Leiter Jr. and Drew Smyly.

Cubs willing to listen on 'any player' on the roster at the deadline

Hawkins appeared on 670 The Score Thursday morning, fielding questions on the rapidly approaching trade deadline. The big takeaway from his remarks? The Cubs are willing to listen on anybody on the roster

"Any opportunity you have to increase your side of the ledger, you should at least listen to. That could be any player."

Carter Hawkins, via 670 WSCR

That came in response to a question concerning the recent Justin Steele trade speculation that's swirled of late. The point here isn't all that surprising: the Cubs have no untouchables and, should the right offer present itself, Hawkins and Hoyer will consider its short and long-term impact on the organization. Given the lack of major star power on the roster, this shouldn't come as a shock to anyone.

It seems likely Chicago will deal from its pitching staff, a major point of strength for the team. But it's possible the Cubs could look to gain a long-term asset by moving a position player, maybe someone like Christopher Morel, as well. The expectation is not for a full-blown sell-off, but more moves around the margins. The fact that the club is selling at all, though, is a major disappointment for a fanbase desperate for a return to the postseason.