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Cubs' Trade Idea Lands Rays Closer Amid Bullpen Concerns

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matthew Sullivan | Last updated Apr 20, 2025 6:00 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs' offense has been one of the best in baseball to begin the year, and despite the injuries to the starting rotation, it's been a solid group. Meanwhile, the bullpen has been a major area of concern.

Following a disastrous outing against the Arizona Diamondbacks where the bullpen allowed ten runs in one inning, major renovations need to be made in the bullpen. This trade idea has the Cubs and Tampa Bay Rays linking up on a deal for closer Pete Fairbanks, giving the Cubs their much-needed bullpen help.

For this trade idea, the Cubs send two top-30 prospects for Fairbanks, sending 26th-ranked prospect left-handed pitcher Drew Gray and 21st-ranked prospect outfielder Brett Bateman.

The Cubs desperately need bullpen help, and Fairbanks would be a great addition at a very reasonable price. While Fairbanks hasn't been named an All-Star, he's had multiple solid seasons.

In seven years with the Rays, Fairbanks has a 2.97 ERA across 203 and one-third innings pitched. Fairbanks in 2024 had a 3.57 ERA, 23 saves, and 44 strikeouts across 45 and one-third innings. In the same number of innings in 2023, Fairbanks had a 2.58 ERA, 25 saves, and 68 strikeouts.

His most impressive season was 2022, where he had an impressive 1.13 ERA in 24 innings, with an incredible 12.67 strikeout-to-walk ratio, with 38 strikeouts to just three walks.

Fairbanks is under contract for just $3.8 million in 2025, with a $7 million club option in 2026. The 31-year-old has gotten off to a strong start in 2025, as through seven innings he has a 1.29 ERA, three saves, and seven strikeouts.

Fairbanks is among the best bullpen arms for the Cubs to target, as his contract is inexpensive, and he will likely not cost a lot to acquire in a trade. With the Rays likely out of the postseason hunt by the trade deadline, Fairbanks is likely to be available.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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