Why This Cubs-Braves Trade Idea Makes Perfect Sense
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The Atlanta Braves and Chicago Cubs are having two completely opposite seasons.
Atlanta is well under .500 and 10 games out of a postseason spot, while Chicago is off to its best start since it won the World Series in 2016. The difference in seasons have put both in different spots at the trade deadline.
There is a potential trade between the two teams that makes so much sense for both sides, and it involves two former Gold Glove winners.
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 08: Marcell Ozuna #20 of the Atlanta Braves reacts after hitting a double in the top of the second inning against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park on July 08, 2025...
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - JULY 08: Marcell Ozuna #20 of the Atlanta Braves reacts after hitting a double in the top of the second inning against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park on July 08, 2025 in Sacramento, California. MoreCubs receive: DH Marcell Ozuna
Braves receive: LF Ian Happ, RHP Brody McCullough (CHC No. 23 prospect)
A swap of former Gold Glove winners in Ozuna and Happ makes sense, more so for the Cubs than the Braves, and let's dive into why that is the case.
It has already been reported that Ozuna could be available at the trade deadline and Chicago is in need of a right-handed bat to counter some of the power left-handed arms in the National League.
He is having a bit of a down year against lefties (.229 average, two home runs) but that can be attributed to not being fully healthy all season.
On the other hand, Happ is in the middle of what would be the worst season of his professional career. A career .246 hitter, Happ is batting just .228 with an OPS of .701.
McCullough is a top-30 prospect in the Cubs organization and would be more of a throw-in piece to add some organizational depth at pitcher for the Braves.
Ian Happ has been stuck in a brutal slump for a couple of months now.
Over his last 56 games:
.199/.301/.371
18 XBH | 31 RBI | 66 K
.299 wOBA | 92 wRC+ — The Wrigley Wire (@TheWrigleyWire) July 11, 2025
With just this season remaining on his contract, Ozuna would most likely be a half-season to help the Cubs make a push to the World Series.
For the Braves, Happ would have the remainder of this season and next year remaining on his contract, while McCullough would have several seasons of team control remaining.
A swap of the former Gold Glove winners is a logical and smart move for both sides and something both fanbases could enjoy and be happy with.
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