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Some Potential Cubs Trade Partners Might Not Want to Deal with Them
The White Sox and Brewers have what the Cubs need, but it probably won’t matter.
While the Cubs have a good foundation in place, they do need some pieces to finish things off. One of those pieces is another front-line starting pitcher. The free agent market has some of those creatures, but the cost looks to be exorbitant. The Cubs do have Ben Brown and Cade Horton on the horizon, but if they will be able to help next season is an open question.
Both the Brewers and White Sox have a front of the rotation guy who is probably available. And the Cubs have a loaded farm system that could be used to pick up an ace, or a deuce. Well, probably should refer to a number two starter as a deuce, but a really good starting pitcher.
Who’s available?
Brewers’ ace Corbin Burnes and White Sox former all-star, Dylan Cease seem to be available. Burnes had a nice season in 2023, going 10–8 with an ERA of 3.38. And those numbers are down a bit from previous seasons.
So why is Burnes likely available? Because he’s a free agent after 2024 and the Brewers are unlikely to sign him. After all, the Cubs farm system is flush at every position. But a trade between the two teams is unlikely. Why?