With the MLB trade deadline just over a week away, the Chicago Cubs are preparing to make strategic moves to improve their roster. While they continue to prioritize enhancing their starting rotation and strengthening third base, the team is also keeping a close watch on bullpen options, focusing particularly on Kyle Finnegan as a potential acquisition.
Changing Priorities as Bullpen Emerges Stronger
The Cubs’ bullpen, once seen as a significant weakness, has greatly improved in recent months and now ranks among the league’s better relief units. Although this progress has reduced the urgency for immediate reinforcements, the team is still actively exploring ways to deepen their relief pitching staff. Kyle Finnegan, the Washington Nationals’ All-Star closer, has emerged as a notable candidate to add valuable flexibility and depth.
Finnegan’s Role and Value Within the Cubs’ Bullpen
Despite concerns over Finnegan’s strikeout rate, a stat often emphasized by analytics, the Cubs see potential in his overall skill set beyond his traditional closer duties. With Daniel Palencia firming up the back end of the bullpen, Finnegan would offer manager Craig Counsell additional matchup options and help manage pitcher workloads throughout games. The Cubs believe that while Finnegan’s performance has dipped slightly since his All-Star breakout last season, he can succeed as a setup man where the pressure is somewhat reduced.
The Trade Environment and Negotiation Dynamics
The Nationals appear positioned to trade Finnegan as they reassess their roster, especially given his current $6 million salary and 4.62 ERA this season—both factors that have lowered his trade value compared to last year’s 3.68 ERA and 38 saves. This situation could allow the Cubs to negotiate a reasonable deal without facing excessive resistance. Though other teams will also express interest, Chicago might offer a package focused on lower-level prospects to secure his services for their bullpen.
Implications for the Cubs’ Playoff Hopes
As the deadline approaches, the Cubs remain determined to strengthen their squad for a postseason run. Adding Kyle Finnegan could prove a tactical move to enhance bullpen versatility, providing manager Craig Counsell with more depth and options during high-leverage situations. This trade target reflects the team’s broader strategy of balancing immediate needs with long-term flexibility as they pursue a playoff berth.