MLB Insider Floats Cubs as a Landing Spot for Resurgent Pirates’ Pitcher Andrew Heaney originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
This season, the Chicago Cubs have a clear need for a starter. The season-ending injury to Justin Steele has left a noticeable gap which Jed Hoyer intends to fill. While Hoyer continues his search, MLB insider Mark Feinsand took it upon himself to propose a satisfactory solution.
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When writing about trade candidates and their potential suitors, Feinsand proposed trading for Andrew Heaney. He wrote this of Heaney:
“No, this isn’t the Pittsburgh starting pitcher whose potential availability has generated so much buzz, but Paul Skenes isn’t going anywhere anytime soon,” he wrote. “Mitch Keller could be in play, though he’s signed through 2028, so Heaney – who is pitching on a one-year, $5.25 million deal – could be a better option. Heaney is 3-5 despite a 3.33 ERA in 14 starts, and the 34-year-old has pitched in the postseason in two of the past three seasons.”
Pittsburgh Pirates starting pitcher Andrew Heaney (45) reacts after giving up a two-run home run to Chicago Cubs center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong during the fourth inning at Wrigley Field. Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Heaney is in the midst of a career year. His 3.33 ERA this season has lowered his rather unbecoming career ERA to 4.37. On a one-year deal with the Pirates, who’s non-sea worthy vessel is rapidly sinking, Heaney is one of the few productive pieces the Bucs would care to part with that can bring them a nice package in return.
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For the Cubs, bringing Heaney aboard wouldn’t be like finding a new ace, but with his performance his year, he could easily stabilize their wobbly rotation. And one of the key selling points is his $5.25 million contract, which would save the Cubs a lot of money chasing after most names that have seen similar success.
Related: Cubs Trade Idea Lands 3.88 ERA Starter
Related: MLB Insider Floats Angels’ Ace as a Fit for Cubs
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 19, 2025, where it first appeared.