Chicago Cubs Trade Rumors: Andrew Kittredge Joins Bullpen Amid Playoff Push

Andrew Kittredge has been traded to the Chicago Cubs, marking another strategic move by the Cubs to bolster their bullpen as they head into the final months of the MLB season. The 35-year-old right-handed reliever, formerly of the Baltimore Orioles, will bring his experience and command as the Cubs aim to stay competitive in the tightly contested National League Central race where they are neck and neck with the Milwaukee Brewers.

In the deal, the Cubs sent 17-year-old shortstop prospect Wilfri De La Cruz to the Orioles. De La Cruz, who was signed by the Cubs as an international free agent for $2.3 million this January, is currently playing in the Dominican Summer League and is considered a promising young talent despite his age. Although years away from reaching the majors, De La Cruz represents a high-upside future player for Baltimore.

Kittredge arrives in Chicago with a proven track record, underscored by his performance this season where he posted a 3.45 ERA over 31 1/3 innings for the Orioles. Known for his slider, which boasts a 34.3% whiff rate, and his ability to generate ground balls with a sinker averaging 94.9 mph, Kittredge is expected to add depth and reliability to a Cubs bullpen that has been solid overall but faltered in July.

Having played for several teams, including the Tampa Bay Rays and St. Louis Cardinals, Kittredge understands the dynamics of MLB bullpens and is familiar with the Cubs' style, which should aid his transition. Notably, his career includes an All-Star appearance in 2021, and he has been a consistent postseason performer, an aspect that should prove vital for the Cubs as they seek a playoff berth.

The Cubs, sitting with a team ERA of 3.96, are looking to Kittredge to stabilize the crucial late innings in games, a role manager Craig Counsell is likely to utilize given Kittredge’s command and ability in high-pressure situations. His presence is expected to alleviate the workload on emerging talents like Daniel Palencia and Brad Keller, allowing for more strategic match-ups in divisional series against key rivals such as Cincinnati and St. Louis.

Financially, the deal provides the Cubs with flexibility. Kittredge’s contract includes a $9 million club option for the 2026 season, providing a path for long-term investment if he proves to be an impactful addition.

For Baltimore, Kittredge's trade marks a continuation of its sell-off strategy as they reposition for the future. Despite starting the season with playoff aspirations, the Orioles' current standing in the AL East necessitated a focus on acquiring young talent, illustrated by the trade for De La Cruz.

For the Cubs, acquiring Kittredge complements their earlier acquisition of Michael Soroka from the Washington Nationals, enhancing the team's overall pitching depth. Such moves align with Chicago's ambitions to build a formidable lineup capable of contending deep into the playoffs.

While discussions surrounding the trade have been mixed, with analysts citing the return as potentially light given Kittredge’s experience and immediate impact potential, Baltimore’s commitment to augmenting their farm system with future talent is apparent. As the deadline approached, both teams demonstrated clear priorities aligned with their current competitive windows.