The Chicago Cubs are exploring options to add another starting pitcher this offseason, even after signing Matthew Boyd. While they could pursue a trade, with Spring Training about to begin, they may opt to wait until the trade deadline to make a move.
Although trades will occur during Spring Training, the Cubs are unlikely to act unless they receive an irresistible offer.
MLB insider Robbie Hyde recently proposed a trade idea involving the Cubs acquiring Clarke Schmidt from the New York Yankees. Schmidt posted a 2.85 ERA across 16 starts last season and would be a valuable addition to Chicago’s rotation. However, Hyde’s suggested deal would send Nico Hoerner to New York.
“This would give the Yankees an everyday option in their infield,” Hyde explained. “Hoerner has a high-contact bat and could slot in at second base, allowing Jazz Chisholm to shift back to third. Either way, he’d be a great fit for the Yankees.”
Hoerner would fill a major need for New York as a versatile, Gold Glove-winning infielder with strong contact-hitting ability and speed. With only one year left on his contract, the Cubs risk losing him for nothing if they don’t move him. While that doesn’t mean they should trade him hastily, it’s a scenario worth considering.