The Chicago Cubs are expected to be active in the coming days with the trade deadline approaching. The Kansas City Royals are a team that may have some pieces that the Cubs desire. MLB Network’s Jon Morosi reports that the Cubs have “checked in” with the Royals ahead of the deadline. Chicago is projected to be a contending team when the playoffs come around, so they must fill any holes they have. Although they don’t have many, the Royals have a few guys who could be very useful to the Cubs.
Report: Cubs Have Checked in with the Royals Ahead of Deadline
The most sought-after Royal that the Cubs want is right-handed starter Seth Lugo. He has been the Royals’ number two guy this year behind All-Star Kris Bubic. The Royals are much more likely to ship Lugo off than Bubic, but Lugo has still been excellent this year. In 107 innings pitched this year, he has conjured a 2.94 ERA with 93 strikeouts and a 1.093 WHIP. Lugo features an astounding 10-pitch mix, with some being used more than others. He has been a very underrated pitcher in his career, as through 10 seasons, he holds a 3.33 ERA. Lugo would be a huge upgrade to the Cubs’ starting rotation, as the backend has had their struggles. If they want a chance at a World Series, they need to go out and get a guy like Lugo.
The Cubs have checked in with the Royals ahead of the trade deadline, sources say. This is not a surprise. The Cubs need pitching; KC is more likely to move Seth Lugo (starting tomorrow at Wrigley) than All-Star LHP Kris Bubic. @MLBNetwork @WatchMarquee @670TheScore
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 22, 2025
Another guy who will be a less desired target is Royal’s second baseman, Jonathan India. India came over from the Cincinnati Reds in the offseason and has had an average year. He has played some third base this year, which is solely the reason the Cubs would target him. They could use another third baseman, but Jonathan India wouldn’t be an incredible upgrade. India this year has a .669 OPS with only four home runs. Although the Cubs’ current third baseman, Matt Shaw, has struggled this year, trading for India would be practically useless. The Cubs would be better off keeping a prospect and letting Matt Shaw develop. Overall, the only third baseman worth trading for would be Eugenio Suárez of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Main Photo Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
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