The Chicago Cubs have made a bold move to strengthen their pitching rotation, acquiring right-handed ace Pablo López from the Minnesota Twins in a high-profile trade. The deal comes in response to the loss of Justin Steele, who suffered a season-ending injury, leaving a critical gap in the starting rotation. López, 29, brings experience, consistency, and star power to a Cubs team with postseason ambitions.
López has been one of the most reliable arms in the league over the past three seasons, making at least 32 starts each year and delivering strong performances in both the regular season and playoffs. He began the 2025 season with a dominant stretch, posting a 1.62 ERA over 16.2 innings, reigniting trade interest from multiple clubs.
The Cubs were the most aggressive suitor, ultimately sealing the deal by parting with a package that included top prospect outfielder Owen Caissie and right-hander Jaxon Wiggins.
Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer expressed his excitement about the move. “Pablo is a proven performer who adds a big boost to our rotation,” Hoyer said. “With Justin [Steele] down, we knew we needed to act, and Pablo was the perfect fit for what we’re building here.” The deal solidifies a powerful 1-2 punch at the top of the rotation, pairing López with emerging left-handed ace Shōta Imanaga.
López, who was an All-Star in 2023, is under contract through 2027, giving the Cubs long-term stability in a position that has lacked depth in recent seasons. His combination of strikeout ability, durability, and playoff experience made him one of the most coveted arms available. For the Cubs, this signing signals a win-now mindset as they look to contend in a competitive National League Central division.
The addition of López comes as the Cubs continue to navigate a season filled with both promise and pressure. The team is off to a solid start but needed reinforcements to keep pace with rivals. With this move, the front office is showing fans and players alike that they’re serious about returning to October baseball—and potentially making a deep run.
As Pablo López prepares to make his Cubs debut, the buzz around Wrigley Field is electric. Chicago’s faithful are hopeful that this move could be a turning point in their season. With a retooled rotation and a mix of veteran talent and young stars, the Cubs just got a lot more dangerous—and they’re ready to compete.
