As the MLB trade deadline approaches on July 31, 2025, the future of Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Eugenio Suárez remains a major point of suspense. While the New York Yankees find themselves in a deadlock over acquiring the All-Star slugger, the Chicago Cubs have surfaced as the leading contender to secure his services, highlighting the high stakes surrounding the Eugenio Suárez MLB trade deadline drama.

Suárez has delivered one of the most powerful offensive performances this season, which has intensified the competition among contending teams eager to strengthen their playoff prospects. Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks’ front office, led by GM Mike Hazen, is carefully weighing options with a clear commitment to maximizing returns rather than rushing into any trade.

Chicago Cubs Positioned as the Primary Destination for Suárez

Despite the Yankees’ stalled negotiations, the Cubs are gaining momentum as the frontrunner in the race for Suárez’s services. Veteran baseball insider Jon Heyman expressed confidence in the Cubs’ prospects during a recent broadcast on 670 The Score, noting that

“The Cubs have as good of a chance as anybody, and he fits them perfectly. I would not be shocked if he is a Cub.”

This strong endorsement has fueled excitement among Chicago fans eager to fill the glaring gap at third base.

Heyman acknowledged the intense competition in this trade pursuit but emphasized Suárez’s immense value despite a recent performance lull caused by trade distractions. He highlighted,

“He’s had a fantastic year. I mean, he’s a Borderline MVP candidate the way he’s played.”

Suárez’s offensive numbers back this sentiment, featuring a league-leading 36 home runs and 87 RBIs, along with an impressive .325 batting average and 1.220 OPS over his last 32 games.

For the Cubs, the urgency to shore up their third-base position stems from ongoing struggles there throughout the season, making Suárez an especially attractive target. His power-hitting capabilities and consistent production could be a transformative addition to Chicago’s lineup as they aim for a strong playoff run.

Arizona Diamondbacks’ Calculated Trade Approach Under GM Mike Hazen

Diamondbacks GM Mike Hazen has maintained a cautious and transparent stance in negotiations, signaling no urgency to move Suárez hastily. Hazen explicitly stated,

“Do I think there’s a chance we make more trades? Yes, I do,”

acknowledging the high likelihood of deadline action, but he also revealed his reluctance for complicated trade scenarios.

When asked about his ability to orchestrate multi-team deals, Hazen candidly admitted,

“I’m not smart enough to do it. Honestly. I mean, that’s the honest answer. Do you want me to lie to you?”

This rare moment of honesty from a top GM contrasts with the typical guarded approach executives take during high-pressure deadline weeks.

Hazen’s strategy appears centered on simplicity and maximization of value. The D-backs have already dealt players like Josh Naylor and Randal Grichuk and intend to keep their core talents—Corbin Carroll, Ketel Marte, and Geraldo Perdomo—while managing expiring contracts carefully. The plan will likely involve moving Zac Gallen and Suárez, with Merrill Kelly also a potential trade candidate before the deadline.

Evaluating the Stakes: What Suárez Brings to the Table

Suárez’s standout 2025 campaign has vaulted him into borderline MVP territory, an achievement highlighted by a remarkable month of April when he hit four home runs in a single game. His sustained offensive surge includes dominant slugging metrics and consistent run production, critical components that any contending team prizes desperately for a late-season push.

The broader context of the trade deadline shows a market crowded with contenders eager to add impact talent yet cautious about overpaying. Hazen’s Diamondbacks hold significant leverage given Suárez’s value, and he is carefully navigating the trade landscape to capitalize on that strength.

For the Cubs, acquiring Suárez could resolve a critical vulnerability and provide a power bat that has eluded them all season long. The Diamondbacks, by waiting for the right deal, position themselves to gain substantial future assets or major league-ready talent, reinforcing their rebuilding efforts while capitalizing on one of baseball’s hottest performers.

Implications and Next Steps in the Deadline Countdown

With just days remaining until the trade deadline, the intense negotiations surrounding Eugenio Suárez epitomize the uncertainty and volatility of MLB’s midseason roster shake-ups. The Yankees’ inability to secure agreement has elevated the Cubs as the bold favorite, creating mounting anticipation among fans and analysts alike.

The Diamondbacks’ strategic patience under Mike Hazen’s leadership stresses the importance of value preservation during these high-pressure moments. Should the Cubs successfully land Suárez, it may mark a pivotal turning point for their postseason aspirations, showcasing how a single impactful acquisition can alter the competitive landscape.

As the clock winds down, every front office will be watching closely to see if the D-backs find a suitable deal that balances immediate returns with long-term organizational goals, while the Cubs hope to finalize an acquisition that could define their 2025 campaign.