Is it possible for the Cubs and Astros to make another deal before the 2025 season?

The Chicago Cubs and the Houston Astros have developed a somewhat unique relationship in recent years, one that involves trading players who have had significant impacts on both teams. Both franchises have been active in reshaping their rosters over the past few seasons, with an eye on future success. As the 2025 MLB season nears, it’s important to consider whether these two teams could make another deal before the start of the season—whether for immediate help, future prospects, or both.

To evaluate the possibility of a deal between the Cubs and Astros, several factors need to be considered, including the teams’ current needs, the players who could be involved, recent trends in team management, and how such a deal would fit into the broader context of both teams’ championship aspirations. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into these areas to see whether another deal could be on the horizon before Opening Day 2025.

Recent History of Cubs-Astros Trades

To understand whether another trade between the Cubs and Astros is likely, we first need to look at the history of their past dealings. Over the last several years, the two teams have traded with each other a few notable times, though these deals have not been particularly frequent. Nevertheless, these trades have often been strategic moves designed to fill specific needs for both teams.

The most significant deal between the two teams came in 2023, when the Astros acquired outfielder Kyle Schwarber from the Cubs in exchange for a package of prospects. This deal gave the Astros a power bat and a left-handed presence to add to their lineup, an area they had been looking to bolster. Schwarber’s presence helped balance an offense already featuring stars like José Altuve and Yordan Álvarez. The Cubs, meanwhile, received a group of young prospects who were expected to contribute in the coming years, adding to their future core.

While that trade was significant for both teams, it was just one of a few moves made in the ongoing process of rebuilding for the Cubs and optimizing the Astros’ championship window. Both teams have seen success since, with the Cubs continuing to develop their young talent and the Astros continuing to be one of the top contenders in the American League.

However, after 2024, the need for a trade might not only be a matter of acquiring a key piece but also about filling gaps with certain skill sets—perhaps involving veteran players or prospects.

The Cubs’ Needs: Strengthening the Lineup and Pitching Staff

As the Cubs move toward the 2025 season, their primary focus will likely be on continuing their rebuild while also making strategic acquisitions that can help push them into contention. The Cubs finished the 2024 season with a strong but somewhat unbalanced roster, and heading into the offseason, they’ll be looking for ways to strengthen key areas such as the rotation and the outfield.

1. Outfield Depth

One area where the Cubs could look to make a move is in the outfield. Despite having solid contributors like Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki, Chicago still lacks consistent production from other spots. The Cubs could target an outfielder who can provide them with more power or on-base consistency. Houston, with their solid outfielders like Kyle Tucker and Chas McCormick, has the depth to consider moving a player in exchange for pieces the Cubs need.

If the Cubs are looking for a veteran outfielder to fill in a corner spot or provide extra depth, players such as Jake Meyers or Jose Siri—who have played significant roles for Houston in recent years—could be potential trade candidates. Both are capable of providing solid defense in the outfield, though their offensive production could use some refinement.

2. Starting Rotation

Pitching is another area where the Cubs could look to make a move before 2025. They have some good young arms, but they may still be one or two experienced veterans short of a true contender’s rotation. Houston has a deep and talented starting staff, with players like Framber Valdez, Cristian Javier, and Lance McCullers Jr. leading the way.

While the Astros may not necessarily want to part with a top-tier starter like Valdez or Javier, they could be open to trading a depth arm or a pitcher who is on the verge of free agency. The Cubs may have interest in someone like José Urquidy or Hunter Brown, both of whom have shown potential but have dealt with inconsistency in their careers. A trade for a starting pitcher with upside could be a win-win for both teams—helping the Cubs fill a key need while providing the Astros with the right pieces to keep their championship window wide open.

3. Bullpen Help

While the Cubs’ bullpen was relatively effective in 2024, they still need to add depth to the unit in order to compete with the league’s elite teams. Houston has one of the more reliable bullpens in baseball, with players like Ryan Pressly and Héctor Neris anchoring the back end. If the Cubs are looking to shore up their bullpen before 2025, the Astros could offer some mid-level relievers with valuable experience, or a pitcher coming off a strong season, potentially helping the Cubs to address any gaps in their bullpen depth.

The Astros’ Needs: Adding Power and Veteran Leadership

For the Astros, their focus in 2025 will likely be on securing another World Series title. With a roster that includes Yordan Álvarez, José Altuve, and Kyle Tucker, the offense is certainly potent. However, Houston may still have holes to fill, especially in terms of adding depth to their lineup or enhancing their bullpen.

1. Power Bat or Versatile Infielder

Houston’s offense, while explosive, can be vulnerable at times, particularly when one or two players go through slumps. Adding another power bat to the lineup would make Houston even more dangerous in the postseason. While Alex Bregman and Álvarez provide significant offensive production, the Astros could look to acquire another veteran bat to complement their stars, especially in a utility role or at third base.

The Cubs have a deep group of players who could be appealing to the Astros, including Nico Hoerner, who has been a steady presence in Chicago’s lineup. If the Astros are interested in adding a versatile infielder with a solid bat, Hoerner could be an option—though the Cubs would likely ask for a significant return in a trade for a player of his caliber.

2. Bullpen Reinforcements

Though the Astros have a solid bullpen, as always, there is room for improvement. Houston may look to trade for an experienced reliever to add more depth to their high-leverage situations, especially considering how much the postseason can put stress on the bullpen. The Cubs have several relievers with experience, and one could be a logical target for Houston’s needs.

Cubs’ closer Adbert Alzolay could be a potential target. Alzolay’s performance in 2024 as Chicago’s closer was impressive, and his ability to close games could bolster the back end of the Astros’ bullpen. A potential trade for a reliable arm in exchange for minor league prospects or depth pieces could help Houston put the finishing touches on a championship-caliber roster.

Trade Possibilities and Challenges

Though there are certainly areas where both teams can benefit from a trade, there are also challenges that must be considered. For the Cubs, making a trade with a team like Houston could be difficult if they’re looking to maximize their long-term future. Chicago may not want to part with valuable prospects or young talent unless they’re certain that the player they’re acquiring can significantly contribute to their growth and eventual success. Conversely, the Astros, who are looking for immediate contributors to their title hopes, may not want to part with top-tier players or prospects unless they see clear value in the deal.

The financial aspect of such a trade is also worth considering. With the Cubs still in the process of rebuilding, they may be hesitant to take on expensive contracts from veterans unless it’s necessary to push them into contention. On the other hand, the Astros, with a well-established core and a win-now mentality, may be willing to make a larger financial commitment to improve their chances of winning another World Series title.