The Chicago Cubs have expressed interest in acquiring Rafael Devers, a move that attracted attention during recent trade discussions. Despite their position as division leaders in the National League, complications involving contract commitments and roster fit have raised doubts about the feasibility of completing a deal for the Boston Red Sox star.
The Cubs have built a strong offensive lineup this season, showcasing a powerful group of outfielders and hitters that rank among the best in baseball. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, Chicago was one of several teams that reached out to Boston about a potential trade involving Devers before the Red Sox ultimately sent him to the San Francisco Giants.
The Red Sox say that they had conversations with the Mariners, Cubs, Padres, Blue Jays,
Nightengale wrote.
And Atlanta about Devers before dealing him to San Francisco.
—Bob Nightengale, Reporter
One of the main issues facing the Cubs is the financial burden of Devers’ contract, which runs approximately $250 million over nine years. With existing priorities such as negotiating an extension for Kyle Tucker, adding Devers presents significant salary concerns. Additionally, trading for Devers would likely require Chicago to part with valuable pitching prospects or depth, a difficult proposition given the Cubs’ current roster limitations.
Placement within the lineup also complicates matters, as Devers has refused to play first base and has struggled defensively at third base. The Cubs’ outfield and designated hitter slots are largely occupied by established players including Tucker, Seiya Suzuki, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Ian Happ. Meanwhile, Michael Busch’s strong first base performance and Matt Shaw’s recent improvements at third base leave little room for Devers.
Given these financial and positional hurdles, as well as the assets Boston is seeking in return, a trade to bring Devers to Chicago appears improbable. Despite the appeal of adding an elite slugger, the Cubs face significant challenges integrating him into their roster structure.
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