Chicago Cubs Reportedly Pursuing Two Aces in Trade Talks
The Chicago Cubs could have a new frontline starting pitcher soon, something they have been pursuing all winter.
With Marcus Stroman out of the picture, the Cubs need to upgrade their rotation that currently has Justin Steele at the top followed by Kyle Hendricks and Jameson Taillon.
A new ace could be on his way to Wrigley Field according to Jon Morosi of MLB Network.
According to Morosi, the Cubs are one of two teams contacting the Cleveland Guardians about a potential trade for Shane Bieber as well as the Tampa Bay Rays for Tyler Glasnow.
Both names have been rumored to be on the trade block but it is now official.
Bieber is a six-year MLB veteran and holds a career 3.27 ERA and 1.118 WHIP over 831.0 innings pitched. He won the Cy Young award during the shortened 2020 season and in 2022 he threw 200.0 innings while posting an excellent 2.88 ERA. He finished seventh in Cy Young voting in 2022.
Glasnow on the other hand is coming off of Tommy John surgery that he underwent in August of 2021. The righty returned to pitch in 2023 after missing most of 2022. However, his injury woes didn't end there.
He missed time in 2023 with an oblique injury and was only able to throw 120.0 innings last season. When on the mound he is effective. Glasnow has some of the best stuff in the game and will flash brilliance. His issue is staying healthy and competing an entire season.
Either would make a fine addition to the rotation, but Bieber may be the best bet and investment long-term for the Cubs. Of course, he will likely have a higher prospect cost than Glasnow.
A tough decision lies ahead for Chicago's front office.
