The Chicago Cubs’ plans for internal bench depth have taken a significant hit this season, as one of their key prospects has failed to meet expectations at the big-league level. The disappointing performance has all but guaranteed that the front office will need to look outside the organization for help ahead of the trade deadline, particularly as the team battles for position in a competitive National League Central race.
Coming into the 2025 season, the Cubs had hoped that infielder-outfielder flexibility and internal development would shore up their bench. Much of that optimism was tied to the emergence of several promising young players from their minor league system. However, the struggles of one highly touted prospect — expected to be a major contributor in a utility role — have underscored the team’s current depth issues and forced a reassessment of the roster’s versatility.
The prospect in question entered the season with strong spring training performances and high praise from team scouts and analysts. Yet once the regular season began, the production simply didn’t follow. Offensive inconsistencies, defensive lapses, and a lack of plate discipline have plagued the young player, leading to decreased playing time and growing concerns from the coaching staff. With a batting average well below the Mendoza line and an OPS lingering near the bottom among qualified bench players, the results have made it clear that the Cubs can’t afford to wait for a turnaround.
Manager Craig Counsell has been forced to rely more heavily on regular starters, increasing the risk of fatigue and injury as the season progresses. The bench, once expected to offer strategic matchup advantages and late-game relief, has become a liability in tight contests. The lack of a reliable left-handed bat, along with limited pinch-hitting success, has only magnified the problem.
With the trade deadline looming, President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer is now expected to prioritize acquiring a veteran bat who can fill multiple roles off the bench. Players with positional flexibility, playoff experience, and a proven ability to deliver in clutch moments will be at the top of the team’s wish list. Several names around the league could be potential targets, including players from teams currently on the fringe of playoff contention.
The Cubs are still very much in the hunt in the NL Central, and the organization remains committed to competing in 2025. However, the front office understands that championship-caliber teams are built not just on stars, but on the strength of their supporting cast. The inability of their bench to contribute consistently has become a glaring weakness — and it’s one that can’t be ignored if the club intends to make a serious postseason push.
The prospect’s long-term future with the team isn’t necessarily in jeopardy, but it’s clear that more development time may be required, whether in a reduced role or back in Triple-A. For now, however, the Cubs need immediate solutions, and the trade market appears to be the only realistic path forward.
As the deadline approaches, Cubs fans can expect the team to be active, with bench help now becoming a top priority. What was once a bet on internal growth has turned into a lesson in the unpredictable nature of young talent — and a reminder of how vital depth is in the pursuit of October success.
