Must Read: Cubs Leverage Deep Rotation in Trade, Land Flamethrowing, Versatile Arm to Bolster Bullpen.

In light of Jordan Hicks’ struggles as a starter for the Giants, the Cubs are being linked to a potential trade that would send outfielder Seiya Suzuki to San Francisco in exchange for Hicks. The move reflects Chicago’s strategy of using its surplus of offensive talent to address a vulnerable pitching staff weakened by the loss of ace Justin Steele.

Though Hicks has been moved back to the bullpen after a rocky stint in the rotation (6.55 ERA in 9 starts), his elite velocity and ability to pitch in multiple roles still make him a valuable asset. The Cubs, facing rotation depth issues, may see Hicks as a swingman who could either spot start or deliver high-leverage innings out of the bullpen.

Meanwhile, the Giants would gain a consistent, power-hitting outfielder in Suzuki, helping them address their offensive shortcomings. While the proposed deal comes with some risk for both teams, it speaks to a mutual effort to rebalance strengths and shore up weaknesses midseason.