Podcast: Breaking Down Chicago Cubs' Exciting Trade Deadline

Breaking down the moves from the Chicago Cubs' exciting moves ahead of the MLB trade deadline.

The Chicago Cubs shocked a majority of Major League Baseball and its fans when they decided not to sell before the trade deadline. Instead, the team got hot and the front office decided it was time to make a push for the playoffs.

They decided to keep their best trade pieces — Cody Bellinger and Marcus Stroman — on the roster and made trades to improve the roster.

The headliner was acquiring third baseman Jeimer Candelario from the Washington Nationals. They also added some more bullpen help in separate deals.

Sports Illustrated MLB Publisher Kade Kistner joined the "I Said What I Said" podcast to discuss the promising outlook the Cubs have after the deadline.

"The Reds didn't really improve at all and the Milwaukee Brewers only marginally improved," said Kistner. "So I think that division is up for anyone."

The Brewers added three veterans to their team — outfielder Mark Canha, first baseman/designated hitter Carlos Santana and relief pitcher Andrew Chafin. The Cincinnati Reds landed a relief pitcher in Andrew Moll despite being in the market for starters.

With Chicago deciding to become buyers and push for the playoffs instead of selling off their assets, there is a lot of pressure on the front office for this team to continue winning.

Kistner thinks that can happen saying, "My money is on Milwaukee winning that division, but I think, and I have this written down, I think the Cubs come in and they sneak in that final Wild Card spot."

That would be the first time since 2020 that Chicago would be playing playoff baseball.

Watch the full trade deadline recap episode at the YouTube link below, or listen on Spotify at the link below as well.