Cubs Pursue All-Star Relievers Ahead of Trade Deadline

The Chicago Cubs are scrambling for bullpen reinforcements as the trade deadline creeps closer. Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase, a three-time All-Star and MLB saves leader for three straight years, sits high on their list.

Clase is generating a lot of buzz as a potential target to boost the Cubs’ relief corps. With the playoffs in sight, Chicago’s front office is “actively monitoring” Clase and keeping tabs on several other standout arms around the league.

Let’s get into Clase’s performance, Chicago’s bullpen headaches, and which MLB relievers might actually fit the Cubs’ needs.

Emmanuel Clase: An Elite Talent Under Team Control

Clase has built a reputation as one of the best closers in baseball. This year, he’s put up a 2.74 ERA, racked up 23 saves, and thrown 46 innings for Cleveland.

But there’s more to like here. Clase signed a five-year, $20 million extension in 2022, so he’s under team control through 2028. The Cubs wouldn’t just get a game-changing arm—they’d snag a long-term bullpen anchor.

Clase’s Track Record and Cy Young Caliber Success

Clase’s resume is impressive. He finished third in Cy Young voting in 2024, a rare feat for a reliever.

Leading MLB in saves for three straight seasons shows he can handle the pressure. For a Cubs team desperate for bullpen stability, Clase’s dominance could be exactly what they need.

The Cubs’ Current Closer Situation: Daniel Palencia

While Clase is the big name, the Cubs already have Daniel Palencia closing games. At just 25, Palencia has posted a 1.49 ERA, a 0.91 WHIP, and 13 saves in 36.1 innings this season.

Palencia’s rise has been one of the few bright spots in a bullpen that’s struggled to keep up lately.

Chicago’s Bullpen Struggles

Even with Palencia’s breakout, the Cubs’ bullpen has been a mess. Since July 1, their relievers have combined for a 6.31 ERA over 61.1 innings—the third-worst in baseball.

This ugly stat makes it clear: the Cubs need help. Palencia’s been solid, but they just don’t have enough reliable arms to hang in the NL playoff race.

Other Potential Trade Targets: Dominguez and Fairbanks

Clase may be the dream, but analyst Bruce Levine says the Cubs are looking at more than just one target. Two other names on their radar: Seranthony Dominguez from the Orioles and Pete Fairbanks from the Rays.

Both are proven relievers who could step in if the Clase deal doesn’t happen.

Seranthony Dominguez: A Reliable Arm

Dominguez, now 30, has put together a strong season in Baltimore. He’s got a 3.32 ERA over 40.2 innings and has earned a reputation for handling high-leverage spots.

Lately, he’s been even better, shining in his last 15 outings. If the Cubs want a more affordable option, Dominguez could fit the bill.

Pete Fairbanks: A Battle-Tested Closer

Fairbanks has notched 17 saves and a 2.84 ERA this year. Oddly enough, Tampa Bay—still fighting for a Wild Card spot—has reportedly made him available.

He’s a proven closer with playoff experience, which could be huge for the Cubs’ bullpen.

What the Cubs Stand to Gain Before the Deadline

The trade deadline is almost here, and the Cubs have a chance to overhaul their bullpen. Clase is the big swing—a move that could really shake up the roster. Dominguez and Fairbanks are solid backup plans if Cleveland’s price tag is too high.

• Clase: Long-term stability and elite stuff.
• Dominguez: A steady veteran who’s heating up.
• Fairbanks: Battle-tested closer with October experience.

The Cubs keep working the phones and weighing their options. They seem determined to fix their bullpen and, honestly, give fans a real shot at October baseball at Wrigley.

Conclusion

Chicago’s looking for bullpen upgrades, and honestly, it says a lot about how serious they are about staying in the NL Central race. Whether it’s Clase, Dominguez, or Fairbanks, the Cubs have this rare shot to add some real talent to their roster.

Fans are waiting for that big move. There’s a buzz about what it could mean now—and maybe even more down the road.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Report: Three-time All-Star closer among relievers Cubs eyeing for trade