(670 The Score) The Cubs' strong play in May has given president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer and his front office more to contemplate leading up to the trade deadline on July 30.
Entering play Friday, the Cubs were 16-7 in May and had won nine of their past 11 games to pull a half-game behind the NL Central-leading Cardinals. It once seemed like the Cubs would be sellers at the trade deadline after their rough start and with nearly half of their roster headed for free agency after the season, but their quality play has perhaps changed the dynamic, and the organization is delighted to be in the hunt.
If the Cubs are going to win the division, they could really use a few reinforcements ahead of the trade deadline. From all indications, if they were to acquire help at the deadline, the addition would need to have more than just this 2021 season in mind. And judging by Hoyer's comments recently, it does seem like the Cubs will have the ability to add some payroll after offloading ace Yu Darvish and his significant contract to the Padres last December.
"As far as the flexibility, we have had these projections for a little bit and feel like we are ahead of schedule," Hoyer told the Sun-Times while pointing out more fans have returned to the stands. "There's definitely flexibility to make moves in-season if the right thing presents itself."
As always, finding quality young pitching under contract control is a focus for the Cubs. That would help them in 2021 and the coming years, but accomplishing that is easier said than done.
The Cubs' recent surge has opened up eyes in their own organization and with potential trade partners.
"We have been looking at the Cubs as a team seeking prospects," an American League talent evaluator said. "At this point, we are expecting more conversations about our 26-man group. Now with their recent success, we are looking deeper into their system. We must prepare now for their willingness to trade some of their up-and-coming minor leaguers."
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.
