Cubs see surprising trade target emerge before MLB trade deadline

The Chicago Cubs have actually won a series for the first time since early May, taking the first two matchups in their three-game weekend series against the San Francisco Giants.

However, that does not mean all of the Cubs’ problems have suddenly been solved.

Chicago has still gone just 10-22 since its 27-12 start thanks to inconsistent hitting, terrible starting pitching and a shaky bullpen. Luckily, the Cubs got off to a strong enough start to the season that they still find themselves in the playoff hunt, so all is not lost.

But there is no question that Chicago will need to make some moves between now and the MLB trade deadline if it wants to make a serious push.

The Cubs need pitching more than anything else, so they must pursue add least one other arm for their starting rotation. One name in particular that is now emerging as a surprising potential trade target is Detroit Tigers right-hander Casey Mize.

Chicago Cubs could pursue trade for Casey Mize

All of the talk in Detroit is about Tarik Skubal, and understandably so. The two-time Cy Young award winner is one of the best pitchers in baseball, and he is slated to hit free agency at the end of the season. The fading Tigers seem sure to move him, and they should reap a substantial package.

But then there’s Mize, the former No. 1 overall pick who Detroit might also consider dealing before Aug. 3.

Mize has been sidelined due to a groin injury, but he is making his return against the Cleveland Guardians on Sunday. Through nine starts this season, he has pitched to the tune of a 2.27 ERA and 0.965 WHIP while racking up 49 strikeouts over 47.2 innings of work.

The 29-year-old has never really lived up to his initial expectations, owning a lifetime 4.00 ERA since entering the big leagues in 2020. But Mize has also dealt with injuries throughout his career, which has definitely hampered his progress.

Still, Mize is a solid pitcher who made the All-Star team last year courtesy of posting a 3.87 ERA. Like Skubal, he will become a free agent at year’s end, so the Tigers should be motivated to move him.

The good news for the Cubs is that Mize would not be nearly as costly as Skubal, so they could probably afford to swing a trade for the Auburn product. Mize would instantly become one of Chicago’s top arms, so this is a deal the Cubs should already be pursuing.

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