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The Chicago Cubs have already shown they are willing to do business with the New York Mets after acquiring starting pitcher David Peterson, and their latest roster move only strengthens the possibility of another deal between the two organizations. With the MLB trade deadline approaching, Chicago's decision to move on from left-handed reliever Drew Pomeranz highlights a growing need for bullpen reinforcements and makes several Mets pitchers even more appealing.
Cubs' Bullpen Situation Creates Opportunity for Mets Relievers
Pomeranz joined the Cubs after being designated for assignment by the Los Angeles Angels, but his struggles continued in Chicago. After posting a 5.01 ERA with Los Angeles and an even higher 7.94 ERA during his time with the Cubs, the veteran left-hander was designated for assignment once again. The move confirmed that Chicago is not willing to wait for struggling pitchers to turn things around while competing for postseason positioning.
The Cubs entered the season with uncertainty surrounding their left-handed bullpen options. Ryan Rolison has emerged as one of the primary choices, while Hoby Milner and 39-year-old Caleb Thielbar have provided additional innings. However, with Milner currently recovering from injury and Thielbar carrying a 4.40 ERA, Chicago has a clear opportunity to upgrade its relief corps with proven Mets veterans AJ Minter and Brooks Raley.
Minter and Raley would fit perfectly into the Cubs' current needs because both pitchers bring experience, reliability and a left-handed presence. Minter has been one of the more effective relievers in baseball when healthy, while Raley has provided consistent production and durability. With Milner expected to return in early August, Chicago could still decide that replacing Thielbar with one of New York's available relievers would significantly improve its playoff chances.
Luke Weaver Could Give Cubs the Late-Inning Weapon They Need
While Minter and Raley address Chicago's left-handed relief needs, the Cubs could also pursue a more significant bullpen upgrade. The organization has lacked a true ninth-inning option throughout the season, and Luke Weaver represents one of the most attractive closer candidates available before the trade deadline.
Although Weaver has not officially served as the Mets' primary closer this season, his previous success in high-pressure situations and postseason experience make him a valuable target for teams searching for late-game stability. The Mets would likely demand a strong return, but with limited elite closers expected to reach the trade market, Weaver could become one of the most impactful bullpen acquisitions available.
The Cubs are not the only Chicago team that could benefit from New York's willingness to sell. Beyond relievers, the Mets also have starting pitchers who could interest contenders, including Freddy Peralta and Clay Holmes. If Chicago chooses to move Peterson into a bullpen role sooner rather than later, adding another proven starter could become a priority.
As injuries and pitching struggles continue to reshape contenders' needs, teams will continue contacting Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns to evaluate potential deals. Chicago's latest roster move shows exactly why New York's bullpen depth could become one of the biggest factors influencing the MLB trade deadline. Whether the Cubs target Minter, Raley, Weaver or another available arm, the Mets may have the solutions to fix Chicago's biggest weakness before the postseason race intensifies.
