The Washington Nationals, once hopeful for a strong season, have faltered throughout June and July, bringing them back to the familiar position of considering trades before the deadline. While players like Michael Soroka, Kyle Finnegan, and Nathaniel Lowe are expected to attract attention, the future of ace pitcher MacKenzie Gore has become a pivotal subject of discussion.
Though it appears unlikely that Washington will trade its top pitcher, ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan has identified a potential trade partner who might meet the demands for Gore’s acquisition: the Chicago Cubs.
Chicago Cubs as a Potential Destination for MacKenzie Gore
In his recent trade deadline preview, Jeff Passan identified Gore as an ideal target for the Cubs, whose most pressing need is a reliable starter. Passan emphasized the difficulty in securing such a player, saying,
“The prospect of the Cubs getting a starter such as Gore from Washington … is unlikely because of the exorbitant cost landing those players would demand and Chicago’s propensity to play things safe amid budgetary constraints,”
and added,
“At the same time … their desire for a top-of-the-rotation-type arm is perhaps the most acute need of any team at this deadline.”
—Jeff Passan, ESPN MLB Insider
MacKenzie Gore is enjoying a breakout season, holding a 3.59 ERA across 20 starts while accumulating 140 strikeouts over 112.2 innings. Aside from one challenging outing against the San Diego Padres where he allowed eight runs, Gore has consistently delivered at least five innings in most of his appearances, showcasing his stamina and skill.
Why Gore’s Profile Fits a Playoff Contender
Gore’s strength lies in his ability to limit contact, making him a highly valuable asset for any team aiming for postseason success. His performance and years of team control make him a coveted option for organizations seeking to bolster their rotation. For the Cubs, who have lost pitcher Justin Steele to injury, adding Gore alongside starter Shota Imanaga could create a formidable one-two pitching punch in the playoffs.
Trade Considerations from Washington’s Perspective
For the Nationals, trading Gore would present a major challenge, especially on the mound, where the organization already faces depth concerns. However, the trade could be feasible if the Cubs are willing to offer a significant package, including outfield prospect Owen Caissie, currently ranked as the No. 39 prospect in baseball. Caissie has impressed Triple-A pitching with 20 home runs in 77 games and a .964 OPS, and could complement the Nationals’ young outfield that features James Wood and Dylan Crews.
The Nationals’ interim general manager Mike DeBartolo has expressed hopes of keeping the team’s young core intact, which adds complexity to any potential deal. Yet Gore is a key asset from the Juan Soto trade return, and Washington would likely demand a premium in prospects and talent to part with him.
The Impact of a Gore Trade on Both Teams
If made available, Gore would instantly become the most sought-after pitcher on the market, drastically altering the Cubs’ rotation and reinforcing their playoff ambitions. Meanwhile, the Nationals could accelerate their rebuilding process by adding promising prospects like Caissie, provided they receive enough value in return to compensate for losing their ace.
For Washington, any decision to trade Gore will have far-reaching consequences on the team’s future pitching landscape. The Cubs will need to balance acquiring a top-tier starter with their financial limitations and willingness to part with high-end prospects.