# Cubs trade rumors: Tarik Skubal

> Cubs could trade Tarik Skubal to boost pitching but need more arms.
- Title: Cubs trade rumors: Tarik Skubal · Chicago Sun-Times | Shortify
- Summary: Cubs could trade Tarik Skubal to boost pitching but need more arms. Cubs want pitching help beyond Tarik Skubal but may not afford his massive contract.
- Keywords: cubs, tarik skubal, mlb, pitching, brewers, free agents, jed hoyer, mlb trade rumors, Chicago Sun-Times
- Source: Chicago Sun-Times — https://chicago.suntimes.com/cubs/2026/11/09/cubs-tarik-skubal-mlb-trade-rumors-offseason-free-agents-gm-meetings-jed-hoyer-pitching-payroll
- Published: 2026-11-09T22:11:03.137+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: cubs, tarik skubal, mlb, pitching, brewers, free agents, jed hoyer, mlb trade rumors, news, local
## Cubs pitching needs
Cubs need pitching help after finishing 14 games back in NL Central standings.
## Jed Hoyer's priority
Hoyer said reworking pitching staff is Priority No. 1 for Cubs this winter.
## Brewers' success
Brewers won World Series and have best record in baseball last two years.
## Skubal's potential
Skubal is two-time Cy Young winner who could bolster Cubs pitching staff.
## Skubal's contract
Skubal expected to land massive contract that Cubs might not afford.
## Cubs' pitching issues
All five starting pitchers free agents; bullpen needs overhaul after injuries.
## Cubs' past pitching
Cubs gave up more homers than almost every other team last season.
## Hoyer's strategy
Hoyer tried to add ground-ball and strikeout pitchers with Holmes and Gausman.
## Brewers' pitching
Brewers have 1.38 ERA in 65 playoff innings with strong bullpen.
## Cubs' trade options
Cubs could trade Skubal for pitching help but need more arms.
## Cubs' future
Cubs aim to play championship-caliber baseball like Brewers this year.
## Skubal's value
Skubal would liven arms race with Brewers but Cubs have more pitching needs.
## Cubs' decision
Cubs must decide if betting big on Skubal closes gap with Brewers.
## Key takeaway

Cubs want pitching help beyond Tarik Skubal but may not afford his massive contract.