The Cubs are heading toward the 2026 MLB trade deadline with buyer intentions, but the path to upgrading the roster may not be a straight line. With a farm system that isn’t in great shape, Chicago may need to get inventive if it wants to chase premium targets such as Tarik Skubal.
One possible move on the table is a surprising one: dealing veteran catcher Carson Kelly. ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported that the Cubs have already had trade conversations about Kelly this summer, and that Chicago could use him as part of a creative deadline approach.
“Chicago is going to be creative -- with Ayers on the cusp, the Cubs have talked about Carson Kelly with teams seeking a right-handed hitting catcher, for example...”
That would mean the Cubs could end up moving a player from their own big league roster rather than only shopping prospects. It’s a notable possibility, especially with Miguel Amaya already in the mix. Amaya has posted a .710 OPS this season, just behind Kelly’s .723 OPS, while Owen Ayers has also impressed and could step into Kelly’s spot on the 26-man roster.
The catching market itself may help Chicago’s leverage. Ryan Jeffers, Shea Langeliers, and Hunter Goodman do not appear likely to move for different reasons, which leaves Kelly as one of the more realistic names available. That could make him useful to a team looking for a right-handed hitting catcher, and potentially bring back a solid return.
Passan mentioned the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Tampa Bay Rays as possible fits if the Cubs decide to move Kelly in search of prospect capital or pitching help. Another route would be a direct swap for a pitcher from a club that wants catching help.
Kelly, 32, has a 2027 mutual option that is almost certain not to be exercised. He’s a rental, but he’s also been productive, putting up 1.3 bWAR in 250 at-bats over 80 games this season.
The Cubs wouldn’t be looking at a blockbuster haul if they moved him, but Kelly could still serve as a useful chip. And since Chicago has already discussed him in trade talks, the chance of a deal is clearly on the table.
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