Cubs Focus on Future Beyond 2024 in Trade Strategy

Chicago Cubs President Jed Hoyer announced that the team is unlikely to make moves solely focused on improving the 2024 roster before the July 30 trade deadline, unless there is a significant winning streak in the next week. Instead, the Cubs will prioritize acquiring players who can contribute in 2025 and beyond, reflecting their disappointing performance this season and a focus on future competitiveness. Despite some bright spots, such as the performances of Michael Busch and Shota Imanaga, the Cubs are currently 48-53 and 3.5 games out of a wild card spot. Hoyer emphasized the importance of being nimble and not firmly planting their feet, recalling last year's shift from sellers to buyers after an 18-6 run post-All-Star break. The Cubs' bullpen, including standout Drew Smyly, has been a key factor in recent games, but overall offensive struggles have hindered their progress.