Cubs Quickly Trade For 28-Year-Old Cast Off By Division Leader

BusinessSportsMoneyCubs Quickly Trade For 28-Year-Old Cast Off By Division LeaderByPeter Chawaga,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Peter Chawaga is a writer and editor covering Major League Baseball.Follow AuthorJun 15, 2026, 03:28pm EDTSummaryThe Chicago Cubs, once considered emerging contenders, are now struggling significantly due to injuries, inconsistent pitching, and an offensive slump, causing them to fall in the standings. In response, the team is aggressively seeking reinforcements, often taking chances on players discarded by other organizations. This approach led them to acquire 28-year-old right-handed pitcher Yosver Zulueta from the Seattle Mariners for a minor league player and cash considerations. Zulueta, recently designated for assignment by the division-leading Mariners, has posted uneven Triple-A numbers (5.75 ERA) but possesses intriguing raw tools, including a 96 mph fastball and a high strikeout rate (9.4 K/9).Show More CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - JANUARY 15: Chicago Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer speaks to the media during a press conference o introduce Alex Bregman (not pictured) at Wrigley Field on January 15, 2026 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images)Getty ImagesThe Chicago Cubs entered the season looking like one of baseball’s emerging contenders, but the past several weeks have raised some doubt. Injuries, inconsistent pitching and an extended offensive slump have combined to erase what was once a comfortable position near the top of the National League standings.The recent slide has forced the Cubs to search aggressively for help anywhere they can find it, even if that means taking a chance on players other organizations have decided to move on from. And that approach surfaced again last week when Chicago made a quick move involving a pitcher right after he was cut loose by a division-leading club.ForbesSan Francisco Giants’ 3-Year Outfielder Leaves MLB After Slow StartBy Pet...