Jeff Passan Predicts Cubs Will Go 'Really Big' at MLB Trade Deadline

Jeff Passan Predicts Cubs Will Go 'Really Big' at MLB Trade Deadline originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

After the first game coming out of the All-Star break, the Chicago Cubs sit atop the National League. They are 58-39 and just one win away from being the top team in the Majors this season.

Unsurprisingly, with such a record, the Cubs are one of the teams most expected to be active at the trade deadline. But, in a new article from ESPN, MLB insider Jeff Passan went a step further with the Cubs' trade deadline plans.

When posed the question of "Which contender will go really big at the deadline?" Passan answered with the Cubs.

"The Chicago Cubs need a starting pitcher." Passan wrote. "And while other teams' needs are more urgent -- the Phillies' bullpen, third base for the Yankees, and plenty more -- the Cubs are in an extremely strong position."

Passan further elaborated on why the Cubs are in such great positioning. "They have the best run differential in baseball and the third-easiest schedule for the remainder of the season."

The run differential, despite the pitching need, indicates how great the rest of the roster is. Offensively and defensively, the Cubs are one of the top teams in baseball. Both are top five by OPS and Defensive Runs Saved.

All that the Cubs need to do is bring in a new starter to go along with Shota Imanaga and Matthew Boyd. Justin Steele is out for the year, and Jameson Taillon is banged up. A starter is a priority and cannot be ignored at the deadline.

They've brought in veteran journeyman Spencer Turnbull, but the Cubs still need to make more additions on the roster. While a third base upgrade over Matt Shaw is a possibility, the primary need is in the rotation.

Adding a new starter would go a long way towards bolstering the Cubs' World Series odds. With how this season is shaping up for Chicago, they have a decent chance to make a run in 2025. But, to do so comfortably, they need another starter, and Passan thinks they will go "really big" at the deadline for one.

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 19, 2025, where it first appeared.