It’s no secret that the Chicago Cubs will be very active at the trade deadline, and are specifically looking to bolster their pitching staff and possibly add a third baseman.
Today, MLB insider, “Mocc Bomb”, is reporting that the Tampa Bay Rays and Chicago Cubs have discussed a deal around starting pitcher Taj Bradley, reliever Pete Fairbanks, as well as infielder Yandy Diaz.
Bradley’s 2025 season with the Rays has seen him post a 4.35 ERA and a 4.01 FIP over 109.2 innings across 20 starts. His K-BB rate stands at 11.8% (20.7% strikeout rate minus 8.9% walk rate). He’d be a strong addition to the middle of the rotation and is controllable through 2029.
In 38 appearances as the Rays closer, Fairbanks boasts a 2.92 ERA and a 2.93 FIP over 37.0 innings. His K-BB rate is 10.9% (20.6% strikeout rate minus 9.7% walk rate), contributing to his 16 saves. He is controlled through 2026 via a team option that could see him making as much as $3 million.
Though Mocc does mention Diaz, it seems that talks are just developing on the former third baseman. He’s posted an impressive .820 OPS with 15 home runs resulting in a 130 wRC+. His club option for 2026 has already been vested and has a similar option in 2027 if he hits 500 plate appearances in 2026.
Do you think the Cubs should move on any of these names? Join the conversation in the comments!