Chicago Cubs: 5 logical MLB trade deadline targets

1. Jake Odorizzi, Tampa Bay Rays

Let’s put it this way, I would be surprised if the Chicago Cubs do not add a starting pitcher prior to the 2017 MLB trade deadline. There is an obvious need in the rotation, they have the minor league pieces to spare and the team to compete for a championship right now. I am sure they will take a rental if that is the best path but the Cubs are undoubtedly going to be looking for a starting pitcher with long-term control.

Jose Quintana is possible but the White Sox may be hesitant to deal with them in such a big trade. If they want to take a risk on some upside, Sonny Gray could easily be the guy. That being said, Jake Odorizzi stands out as the single-most logical target for the Chicago Cubs.

The Cubs would obviously love to pry away Chris Archer from the Rays, but that is simply not happening without giving up a major big league pieces like Javier Baez or Kyle Schwarber. With that off the table, the Cubs could turn their attention towards Odorizzi.

Odorizzi is an extremely consistent starting pitcher who has put up a 3.68 ERA since becoming a full-time starter with the Rays in 2014. The Rays have a ton of talented pitching on their roster and could be looking to cash in on one of their arms.

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Odorizzi has had a strong start to the season, striking out 7.2 batters per nine innings and posting a 2.88 ERA through five starts. He is a talented pitcher who the Cubs could count on to continue to have success. Plus, Odorizzi is under contract through the 2019 season.

The Cubs will undoubtedly cast their net wide throughout the starting pitching market but Odorizzi is the guy who makes the most sense. A package centered around Ian Happ should get the job done.