The Arizona Diamondbacks received unfortunate news about star pitcher, who landed on the injured list due to elbow inflammation. The pitcher, who signed one of the most lucrative contracts for a starting pitcher this past offseason, is now seeking a second opinion to determine if surgery—potentially even Tommy John—is necessary. More updates are expected later in the week. Understandably, D’Backs fans are disappointed, but one team that might quietly benefit is the Chicago Cubs.
The Cubs are in urgent need of starting pitching help. Injuries to Shota Imanaga and Justin Steele have left Chicago’s rotation thin, and while they can plug gaps with minor-league talent for now, that approach won’t hold up against playoff-caliber opponents down the stretch. Fortunately, the Cubs have already been linked to Arizona in trade rumors. ESPN’s Jesse Rogers recently pointed out the Diamondbacks’ potential trade chips during an interview.
“With Burnes potentially sidelined long-term, and the team falling further behind in both the NL West and Wild Card standings, Arizona may become a seller,” Rogers said on ESPN 1000. “Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly, both of whom are free agents after this season, could be trade targets. Imagine one of them in a Cubs uniform—it’s a big story to watch as the deadline nears.”
Burnes’ injury only deepens the Diamondbacks’ struggles, casting doubt on their ability to climb back into the postseason race. Although their 2023 late-season surge showed they shouldn’t be counted out, dealing Gallen or Kelly might be a strategic way to restock for the future.
According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Arizona is still weighing whether to buy or sell at the deadline. If they’re firmly out of contention, holding onto expiring contracts makes little sense. Despite their disappointing season, the D’Backs boast a young core with plenty of promise. The Cubs, in turn, could offer prospects to help accelerate Arizona’s rebuild.
In the end, a trade between the two clubs could be mutually beneficial.