Cubs Trade Idea Sends Pitching Prospect for Dodgers' Michael Kopech
The Chicago Cubs should be buyers at this year's trade deadline.
After pushing the chips for Kyle Tucker this offseason, the Cubs have gotten off to a 25-19 start, good for the National League Central lead. The offense has been explosive (their 5.55 runs per game is second-best in the Majors), and the starting pitching, while damaged by injuries, has been solid.
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But late-inning situations have plagued Chicago, and President Jed Hoyer should look for support in his contract year.
Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter said this about the Cubs' bullpen:
'The Cubs are 24th in the majors with a 4.68 ERA from their relief corps, and offseason pickup Ryan Pressly (16 G, 6.91 ERA) has not been the late-innings answer that they expected him to be. Up-and-comers Porter Hodge and Daniel Palencia have potential and Drew Pomeranz has been a nice pickup, but one more proven late-inning arm could go a long way.'
Here is a trade idea with the Los Angeles Dodgers:
Cubs receive: RHP Michael Kopech
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Dodgers receive: RHP Brody McCullough (No. 23)
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Michael Kopech (45) pitches during the fourth inning against the New York Yankees in game four of the 2024 MLB World Series at Yankee Stadium.Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Los Angeles and their abundance of arms are a natural trade fit for Chicago. Despite a laundry list of injuries, the Dodgers still boast one of the deepest and most talented collections of starters and relievers in baseball.
Kopech has electrifying stuff when healthy, and having previously played for the Chicago White Sox, his familiarity with the city would ease the transition.
However, he does not come without risk. Kopech, who has been injury-plagued throughout his MLB tenure, is currently on the 60-day injured list with right shoulder impingement, yet is progressing through his rehab.
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He may not be ready until July, but he represents a significant upgrade over manager Craig Counsell's current options. After being traded to the Dodgers last summer, he accumulated a 1.13 ERA and 2.54 FIP with 29 strikeouts to 10 walks over 24 innings.
That version of Kopech is more than worthy of a mid-tier prospect like McCullough, who is expected to reach the Majors next year but is still a bearable loss for a team with deep October aspirations.
Related: Cubs Get Positive Update on Shota Imanaga's Injury Status
Related: Cubs' Craig Counsell Gives Update on Ian Happ Injury
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