The Chicago Cubs’ slow start to the 2026 season has left them at the bottom of the National League Central after 18 games. Despite putting up solid offensive numbers averaging 5.22 runs per game and allowing a reasonable 4.17 runs, injuries have been the team’s biggest setback.
Chicago has already lost key starters Matthew Boyd and Cade Horton early in the season. While Boyd is expected back soon, Horton is out for the year following elbow surgery, leaving a major gap in the rotation. Shota Imanaga and Edward Cabrera have performed well with a combined 2.11 ERA, but the depth behind them remains uncertain.
The Cubs have been linked to free agent Lucas Giolito, though there is competition for his services. If he signs elsewhere, trade options could come into play. One potential target is San Francisco Giants ace Robbie Ray, a former Cy Young Award winner who is in the final year of his contract. With the Giants struggling, they could become sellers later in the season, making Ray available.
Ray, 34, has continued to pitch at a high level, posting a 2.42 ERA and 1.03 WHIP across four starts this year. His experience and consistency would provide a major boost to Chicago’s rotation. However, the Cubs may not act immediately, as general manager Carter Hawkins has indicated the team prefers to evaluate internal options before making significant moves.
So far, Chicago has rotated through eight different starters in 18 games and recorded just five quality starts, highlighting the instability on the mound.
If the Cubs do pursue Ray, it could come at a cost. Reports suggest they might need to part with top prospect Jonathon Long, a promising first baseman who has impressed at Triple-A. While losing Long would be a tough decision, adding a proven veteran like Ray could help stabilize the pitching staff and improve the team’s outlook moving forward.
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