As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Chicago Cubs could soon make several roster changes as they continue their push toward the postseason. With new faces arriving, injured players nearing returns, and prospects forcing the issue with strong performances in Triple-A, the Cubs may have some difficult decisions to make regarding who stays in the majors and who heads back to the minors.
The first step in that process has already begun with the promotion of James Triantos, who recently received his long-awaited call-up ahead of Chicago’s series against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Once regarded as one of the organization’s top prospects, Triantos has earned another opportunity to prove he belongs at the major league level.
Triantos offers the Cubs a valuable combination of defensive versatility and elite contact skills. Capable of playing multiple positions across the infield and outfield, he provides manager Craig Counsell with additional lineup flexibility while bringing a bat known for consistently putting the ball in play.
His arrival could have a ripple effect across the rest of the roster.
Justin Dean Could Be Odd Man Out
One player whose spot appears increasingly uncertain is Justin Dean.
Dean has primarily served as a defensive replacement and pinch-running option this season, but his offensive opportunities have been extremely limited. Entering the weekend, he had accumulated just eight plate appearances, making it difficult to justify a permanent place on a roster with postseason aspirations.
If Triantos remains with the big-league club, the Cubs already possess plenty of outfield depth featuring Pete Crow-Armstrong, Ian Happ, Seiya Suzuki, Michael Conforto, and Triantos himself. That crowded group leaves little room for a glove-first reserve like Dean.
With Chicago expected to pursue additional upgrades before the trade deadline, Dean could become the most logical candidate to return to Triple-A Iowa, where he would receive more consistent playing time while remaining available if injuries strike later in the season.
Pedro Ramirez May Benefit From Everyday Playing Time
Another player who could find himself back in the minors is Pedro Ramirez, although his situation is somewhat more complicated.
Ramirez has seen increased opportunities in recent weeks and has shown encouraging signs at the plate. However, his future role could change dramatically once highly regarded infielder Matt Shaw returns from injury.
Should Shaw reclaim a regular spot in the lineup and Triantos remain on the major league roster, Chicago may simply run out of everyday at-bats for Ramirez.
Rather than keeping him in a limited bench role, the Cubs could decide that regular playing time in Triple-A would better support his long-term development. Continued everyday reps would allow Ramirez to refine his game while remaining prepared for another opportunity in Chicago later this season.
Of course, there’s also the possibility that Ramirez becomes part of a trade package before the deadline, especially if other clubs view him as an intriguing young talent with long-term upside.
Jonathon Long Continues Making Strong Case for Promotion
While some players could be heading back to the minors, Jonathon Long continues to strengthen his argument for a promotion.
The powerful first baseman has done little but produce offensively since reaching Triple-A.
Last season, Long compiled an impressive .305 batting average, .404 on-base percentage, and .479 slugging percentage, while driving in 91 runs over 140 games. Instead of slowing down this year, he has continued his consistent production by posting an .812 OPS through more than 400 plate appearances.
Long’s offensive consistency has made him one of the organization’s most deserving promotion candidates.
Beyond his bat, Long also offers valuable defensive flexibility. Although first base remains his primary position, he has experience playing third base and left field, giving the Cubs another versatile option capable of filling multiple roles.
His ability to back up Michael Busch at first base while contributing offensively off the bench could make him a more impactful roster piece than some of Chicago’s current reserves.
If injuries affect the Cubs’ position-player group later this season or if another roster spot opens after the trade deadline Long appears to be among the leading candidates for a call-up. Unless the organization continues rotating Kevin Alcántara between Iowa and Chicago, Long’s sustained offensive production may soon become impossible to ignore.
Deadline Could Trigger More Changes
With the trade deadline rapidly approaching, Chicago’s roster remains fluid. New acquisitions, returning players, and prospect promotions are all likely to influence the club’s final roster decisions.
Triantos has already earned his opportunity, while Long continues knocking on the door with his outstanding Triple-A performance. At the same time, players like Dean and Ramirez may find themselves squeezed by the Cubs’ increasing roster depth.
As the Cubs continue fighting for a playoff spot, every roster move could play a significant role in shaping the club’s chances during the final stretch of the regular season.
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