MLB Rumors: Tim Anderson trade, Cubs deadline plans, a Yankees mistake

MLB Rumors: What will Cubs do at the trade deadline?

In an article from Patrick Mooney of The Athletic, Jed Hoyer discusses any and all things Cubs trade deadline plans. As of this writing, Chicago is below the .500 mark by five games, but still alive in the NL Central race thanks to poor play from the rest of the division. Manager David Ross put it best:

“Thank goodness for the s—-y play of everybody in the division.”

Yet, Hoyer has to look past that, along with general manager Carter Hawkins. If this Cubs team built to win for the long haul, or should they sell off some high-priced rentals and improve next year’s team and beyond?

“It’s a real factor in every season, right? Whether you’re looking for reinforcements, whether it’s a year where you’re selling, every team has it. You want to act with conviction when you get there — either direction. Like I’ve said all along, I want nothing more than to be on the (buy) side of the transaction,” Hoyer said.

Yet, the Cubs has almost always sold of late. Fans are tired of it. Even after signing Dansby Swanson and Cody Bellinger this offseason, Chicago’s retooling might not be done. Bellinger, along with Marcus Stroman, are two star-caliber players the Cubs could move at the deadline. Both could be free agents this offseason, which is why the organization would consider getting as much back for them as they can.

“How we play over the next month is very important,” Hoyer said. “It’s not early forever.”

Hoyer continued to back manager David Ross, as well, suggesting he’s doing a good job with the talent he has. Overall, Hoyer’s comments weren’t what Cubs fans wanted to hear at this point in the season, but they’re the honest truth.

If things don’t improve, expect more familiar faces headed out the door.