Breaking news: Cubs Trade Pitch Acquires Orioles Power Hitting First Baseman

There were serious concerns about the first baseman position after the Chicago Cubs failed to complete a series sweep of the San Diego Padres. This trade proposal aims to address the Cubs’ two first basemen who have had a difficult start to the season. The Cubs and the Baltimore Orioles agree to trade for Ryan Mountcastle, a first baseman. Given that Mountcastle is 28 years old and has one year of arbitration remaining, the Cubs probably wouldn’t need to deal a highly regarded prospect.

The Cubs would add Mountcastle, a free agent in 2027, to an infield that needs reliable first-baseman performance. Even though Mountcastle hasn’t been named an All-Star in his career, the Cubs would benefit greatly from his yearly performance. In the four complete seasons as the Orioles’ first-baseman, Mountcastle hasn’t dipped below a .250 hitting average. Mountcastle had a strong 2024 season with 30 doubles, 128 hits, and a.271 batting average. Mountcastle has two doubles, one RBI, and a.324 batting average through 10 games in 2025. Although the Orioles’ new outfield dimensions can be used to explain his lack of home runs, he does not have any.

Mountcastle blasted 33 home runs in his debut Major League season. But since then, his numbers have decreased year. But Mountcastle may see a significant increase in his home run total in a better setting, away from the Orioles’ long left-field wall.

At first base, Mountcastle plays strong defense as well. He had his greatest defensive season in 2024, leading the league in fielding percentage (.997) and recording eight defensive runs saved. The Cubs are in dire need of a power-hitting first baseman who can also play excellent field. In addition to adding another much-needed power bat to the lineup, Mountcastle would offer solid defense. Mountcastle won’t face competition from the Cubs’ current first basemen. In his brief time with the Cubs, 40-year-old Justin Turner has struggled defensively and is only hitting.200.

Michael Busch is the team’s other first baseman. Despite being 27 years old, he hasn’t performed well enough to be retained as first baseman. With four runs batted in and one home run, Busch is hitting.235. Although he has a lot more potential than Turner, his MLB career has been patchy. For the Cubs, Mountcastle would be the ideal midseason addition. The Cubs must first improve their offensive capabilities and fortify their defense. Both are offered by Mountcastle, most likely at a fair price.