MLB trade deadline: Five players who fit both the Cubs and White Sox
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Cubs president Jed Hoyer (L) and White Sox general manager Chris Getz. Photo: Getty Images
Both Chicago baseball teams are on the hunt for firepower before Monday's trade deadline as they push for the playoffs.
The big picture: Both sides of town rarely enter the trade deadline looking to add major pieces. For both teams, pitching is the top priority this season.
The intrigue: They're chasing many of the same arms.
Zoom in: The Cubs are hot right now as they try to keep pace with the equally hot Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central. Injuries have thinned their rotation.
- For the White Sox, the young team has overperformed, going from worst to first in the AL Central. They are loaded with top prospects, but it's unclear whether GM Chris Getz wants to empty the farm system so early in the rebuild.
Here are five players who could interest both teams:
Tarik Skubal: The reigning AL Cy Young Award winner is rumored to be on the move from Detroit. He battled injuries earlier this year, but is rounding back into form for the lowly Tigers. He would command a hefty price tag and is a free agent after this season, but he would instantly become the ace of either staff.
- The Cubs would likely have to part with major league talent, while the White Sox could build a package around top prospects.
More realistic target: Reid Detmers (Angels)
Mason Miller: San Diego closer Mason Miller has been linked to both teams, according to ESPN. Miller is one of baseball's most dominant relievers and would boost either team's World Series chances.
- The Sox have a better chance to make a deal with all their top prospects, but there's no denying Miller's dramatic flair would fit right in at Wrigley Field.
More realistic target: Luke Weaver (Mets)
Freddy Peralta: The Mets acquired Peralta from Milwaukee this past offseason and the results haven't matched expectations. With the Mets out of contention, they may sell Peralta to the highest bidder.
- Peralta has a relationship with former Brewers manager Counsell, but the Sox have history with the Mets, dealing them Luis Robert in the offseason.
More realistic target: Robbie Ray (Giants)
Joe Ryan: The Twins ace is having a rocky year and could fetch the Twins a handsome return if they want to deal him. Minnesota remains in the Wild Card race, making a trade unlikely, but they do have several young pitchers waiting in the wings.
- He's better suited for the Cubs since the Twins are chasing the White Sox in the division.
More realistic target: Emerson Hancock (Mariners)
Hunter Goodman: The young Colorado catcher is a bat worth watching. He's reportedly available for the right price. The Cubs could upgrade from Carson Kelly or even Miguel Amaya, but this would be a better fit for the White Sox, who lost Kyle Teel to a season-ending injury.
- Goodman is a power hitter with tremendous upside, so the Rockies won't easily part with him.
More realistic target: Ivan Herrera (Cardinals)
What's next: The MLB trade deadline is Monday, August 3 at 5pm.