With the 2026 MLB Draft and All-Star break now behind them, the Chicago Cubs are turning their full attention to the Aug. 3 trade deadline, where the club is widely expected to be one of the league’s most aggressive buyers.
Entering the second half of the season 12 games over .500 and firmly in the National League playoff race, the Cubs believe their championship window is open and understand that strengthening the bullpen could be the key to sustaining their postseason push.
Unlike last season, when many believed the front office was too conservative at the trade deadline despite adding star outfielder Kyle Tucker, expectations are much higher this year. President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer is under pressure to capitalize on the team’s opportunity to contend, especially after doubling down on winning by signing Alex Bregman during the offseason and acquiring starting pitcher Edward Cabrera.
The urgency is heightened by uncertainty surrounding Major League Baseball’s future labor landscape, with concerns that the 2027 season could be affected by labor negotiations. That possibility has only reinforced the belief that Chicago should maximize its current championship opportunity rather than delay significant roster improvements.
Among the Cubs’ biggest needs remains a bullpen that has struggled to consistently protect leads throughout the first half of the season. While blockbuster targets such as Athletics flamethrower Mason Miller or Houston Astros closer Josh Hader appear unlikely because of their cost and contractual situations, Chicago still has several realistic options capable of strengthening the relief corps.
Brooks Raley Could Be a Familiar Solution
One intriguing option is New York Mets left-hander Brooks Raley, a pitcher with previous ties to the Cubs organization.
Raley originally made his Major League debut with Chicago in 2012 before reviving his career and developing into one of baseball’s most dependable late-inning left-handed relievers. Since joining the Mets, he has become a reliable high-leverage arm, and his impressive 2026 campaign has only increased his trade value.
Through 39 appearances this season, Raley owns an outstanding 2.04 ERA while striking out more than 24 percent of opposing hitters. His ability to neutralize left-handed batters and pitch effectively in pressure situations would immediately address one of Chicago’s biggest bullpen weaknesses.
The Cubs reportedly showed interest in Raley before he re-signed with the Mets ahead of the 2025 season, and that interest could be renewed as the trade deadline approaches.
Because Raley is eligible for free agency after the season, he would be considered a rental player, meaning New York’s asking price is expected to remain manageable without forcing Chicago to sacrifice its top prospects.
Ryan Zeferjahn Offers Long-Term Value
If the Cubs prefer a reliever who could contribute beyond 2026, Los Angeles Angels right-hander Ryan Zeferjahn represents an attractive long-term target.
Unlike veteran rental options, Zeferjahn remains under team control and has not yet reached salary arbitration, making him an affordable piece for several seasons.
The hard-throwing reliever possesses one of the liveliest fastballs among potential trade candidates, consistently reaching the upper 90s while generating swings and misses at an impressive rate.
This season, Zeferjahn has struck out more than 31 percent of the hitters he has faced, giving him the type of overpowering velocity Chicago’s bullpen currently lacks.
Although his years of team control would likely increase his trade cost, the Cubs could view him as an investment capable of strengthening both this season’s playoff push and future bullpens.
Adrian Morejon Brings Left-Handed Firepower
Another realistic option is San Diego Padres left-hander Adrian Morejon, who has quietly developed into one of the National League’s most effective relief pitchers.
While teammate Mason Miller would command a massive trade package, Morejon could be acquired at a far more reasonable price because he is also scheduled to become a free agent after the season.
The left-hander features a fastball approaching triple digits and has struck out more than 28 percent of opposing hitters this year, combining premium velocity with swing-and-miss stuff that fits perfectly into late-game situations.
His arrival would also address another pressing need for Chicago a dependable second left-handed reliever.
The Cubs have struggled to find consistent production from the left side of the bullpen this season. Veteran Caleb Thielbar has battled inconsistency, Hoby Milner remains on the injured list, and Ryan Rolison has largely carried the workload as the club’s only reliable southpaw.
Adding Morejon would immediately improve bullpen balance while giving manager Craig Counsell another proven high-leverage option for critical late-inning matchups.
Deadline Could Define Cubs’ Season
With the Cubs firmly in postseason contention, the coming weeks may determine whether the club merely reaches October or emerges as a legitimate World Series contender.
Chicago’s offense has provided enough production to keep the team among the National League’s best, but inconsistent relief pitching continues to threaten close games. Reinforcing the bullpen has become the organization’s top priority, and acquiring experienced relievers such as Brooks Raley, Ryan Zeferjahn or Adrian Morejon could provide the stability needed for a deep playoff run.
As the Aug. 3 trade deadline approaches, all signs point to the Cubs actively searching for bullpen upgrades in hopes of transforming a promising season into a championship-caliber campaign.
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