Overview
- Jed Hoyer said Friday the trade deadline is “the furthest thing from my mind,” publicly signaling the Cubs will be cautious about making high-cost, short-term deals.
- Chicago has lost 18 of 24 games and its starters have posted elevated ERAs, but Hoyer cited roster depth among position players as a reason to wait on pitching moves.
- Tarik Skubal remains the top trade target around the league, though Detroit’s recent four-game winning run has increased the chance he stays with the Tigers.
- The Red Sox are receiving calls on all three catchers with Connor Wong the likeliest piece to move while Boston has told teams it is not trading its top relievers for now.
- Analysts are also debating whether the Mets should sell at the Aug. 3 deadline because they have several tradable pitchers and relievers, and any market activity will hinge on July standings, injuries, and prospect prices.