Cubs’ decimated rotation spells a trade opportunity for Mariners’ Jerry Dipoto

Writer Paul Taylor argues that the Seattle Mariners should explore a trade with the Chicago Cubs, who need starting pitching after losing seven pitchers to free agency. While Mariners president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto expressed confidence in his current roster, Taylor contends that Seattle still needs additional offensive power and could leverage its surplus of starting arms to negotiate a deal with Chicago.

According to the piece, Seattle pitchers George Kirby, Emerson Hancock, or Bryce Miller could serve as trade options, noting the Cubs reportedly showed interest in Kirby and Hancock earlier in 2026. In return, Taylor suggests the Mariners target Cubs infielders Matt Shaw or switch-hitter Pedro Ramirez to address their need for quality bats.