The Chicago Cubs are sitting atop the NL Central but they’re eyeing starting pitching help as the trade deadline approaches.
It’s not hard to see why. Justin Steele is done for the year and Shōta Imanaga is currently on the IL. The Cubs’ rotation has posted a 3.90 ERA this season – serviceable, but probably not enough for a deep October run.
That’s where Tomoyuki Sugano comes in. The Baltimore Orioles right-hander has caught the attention of FanSided’s Vanessa Serrao as an "under the radar" target that could make sense for Chicago.
Why Sugano Fits
"While the Cubs bullpen isn’t a red flag, it’s rounding into shape like bullpens do," Serrao wrote. "Overall, they need higher-end starting pitching. He is considered a valuable trade chip for the Cubs due to his reliable starting pitching. As well, as his asset as a veteran Japanese star who can limit damage on the mound."
The fit makes sense when you consider what the Cubs are dealing with. They need stability, and Sugano has provided exactly that in his first MLB season.
“The Cubs are dealing with some challenges with injuries in their rotation. This would make Sugano a perfect fit considering his stability. His ability to provide quality starts and only surrendering four or fewer runs in all his starts. Overall, he is a stabilizing force for a team dealing with injuries.”
The Sugano Profile
Here’s what makes this interesting: Sugano has a 3.23 ERA and he’s only 13 games into his MLB career. The Orioles signed him to a one-year deal after he spent 12 seasons with the Yomiuri Giants in Japan’s NPB.
His resume from Japan is impressive:
• Two-time Sawamura Award winner (NPB’s Cy Young equivalent)
• Two-time MVP
• Four-time ERA champion
• 2.43 ERA over 12 seasons
At 35, he’s technically a rookie but brings veteran experience. The Orioles seem to be positioning themselves as sellers, which could put their offseason acquisition on the market for contenders like Chicago.
Now that Baltimore’s looking like they might move pieces, Sugano could be exactly what the Cubs need to solidify their rotation for a playoff push. It’s the kind of move that could make the difference between making the postseason and making noise once they get there.
