Cubs have bigger needs than overpaying in a Vladimir Guerrero Jr. trade

The Chicago Cubs have the prospect depth and quality to trade for just about any available player leading up to this summer's trade deadline. But given how Jed Hoyer and Carter Hawkins view roster assembly, a major blockbuster acquisition doesn't seem particularly likely.

Former American League MVP Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is one name that will surely draw a lot of interest between now and then. Given the Cubs' struggles at the first base and DH roles in recent years, one could argue he'd make for a prime trade target for the Chicago front office.

“I don’t think they’re opposed to it,” an AL executive told MLB.com regarding potential trades involving Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette. “They’ve talked to teams about it. The asks were ridiculous, but I think they’re going to try to retool a lot, and using those guys to get pieces may be the way to do it.”

Toronto's three-time All-Star owns a 121 OPS+ on the season but hasn't been the power threat most expect with a slugging percentage of just .385. His Baseball Savant page suggests good things are coming and at just 25 years old, Guerrero Jr. should be heading into his prime years in the coming seasons.

Cubs hope to get healthy before assessing trade deadline targets

Cubs rookie Michael Busch has cooled a bit after a hot start but still owns a respectable 120 OPS+ despite lower production in May. He's held his own at first base and Craig Counsell also can flex in Cody Bellinger and Patrick Wisdom at the position, as needed. Adding another big bat would be great, but it's hard to tell exactly what type of addition Hoyer will target until we see the roster on the field consistently, free from major injuries.

The bullpen remains a major point of concern, and the catcher's position has been a black hole offensively. The rotation could still see additions given the number of injuries it has weathered. I'm not saying seeing Vladdy take balls off the left-field scoreboard wouldn't be incredible, especially since he's under team control through 2025. Still, it seems like the Cubs are more focused on getting healthy rather than depleting the farm system for a guy like this.