Despite swirling rumors and pitching needs, Chicago intends to retain its core veterans for a postseason push, valuing their lineup consistency and defensive expertise over potential trade returns.
There have been rumors floating around in recent days that the Chicago Cubs could be looking to trade away Carson Kelly and Seiya Suzuki at this year’s trade deadline.
Jeff Passan reported that the Cubs have discussed Kelly with some teams prior to the deadline, and Bob Nightengale believes that the Mariners could be asking for Suzuki in any deal for one of their controllable starting pitchers. Since both players are in the final year of their deal, Chicago's front office would be more willing to trade them to fill an area of need.
Pitching is obviously the biggest focus for the Cubs by the August 3rd trade deadline. They need at least one starting pitcher and a couple of high-leverage arms for the stretch run. That could force the front office to get aggressive in trading for one.
But despite Kelly and Suzuki’s names swirling in trade rumors, all signs are pointing to both remaining with the Cubs through the deadline. Ken Rosenthal and Patrick Mooney of The Athletic reported that Kelly and Suzuki are “highly unlikely to be dealt” by next week’s trade deadline.
It never really made much sense to see Kelly and Suzuki’s names pop up in trade rumors. While both players will be free agents at the end of the 2026 season, both veterans give the Cubs the best chance to make a deep postseason run. The team would be losing a solid bat in the lineup to upgrade its pitching.
Kelly has been a consistent piece on the Cubs in each of the past two seasons. He batted .249 with 17 home runs, 13 doubles, 50 RBI, and two stolen bases across 111 games last year and is currently hitting .260 with six home runs, 10 doubles, and 37 RBI across 81 games in 2026.
His home run numbers might be significantly down this season, but he’s still a meaningful part of this team. Kelly has hit for a solid average and has been one of the best catchers behind the plate when it comes to ABS challenges. His 72% success rate (36-for-50) is tied with Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto for the highest on these challenges (minimum 35 challenges).
As for Suzuki, he is in the midst of another strong season at the plate. He’s slashing .270/.361/.474 with 18 home runs, 18 doubles, and 60 RBI across 93 games. His 2.8 WAR (FanGraphs) is the second-highest on the team, and the Cubs definitely need his power at the top of the lineup.
The Cubs were likely never serious about actually trading Kelly and/or Suzuki at this year’s trade deadline. They need both in order to make a deep postseason run.
