The Chicago Cubs acquired pitcher Michael Soroka from the Washington Nationals to bolster their rotation for a playoff push, per ESPN’s Jesse Rogers. The 27-year-old former All-Star, despite a 4.87 ERA in 2025, boasts a 3.32 xERA, 26.2% strikeout rate, and 45.8% ground-ball rate, suggesting untapped potential. Soroka’s 2019 season (13-4, 2.68 ERA) with the Braves highlights his ceiling, though injuries slowed him in recent years.
The Cubs, tied atop the NL Central, aim to leverage Soroka’s ground-ball tendencies and refined slider in their pitcher-friendly park. A cost-effective rental at $9 million, Soroka could slot into the rotation or serve as a swingman. The Nationals, focusing on their rebuild, part with the pending free agent. This move signals Chicago’s intent to compete in October.
Soroka, 27, is 3-8 with a 4.87 ERA in 16 starts.
The Nationals receive SS Ronny Cruz (Cubs #13 prospect) and OF Christian Franklin (Cubs #14)
Ken Rosenthal on X (formerly Twitter): “Cubs acquiring RHP Michael Soroka from Nationals, sources tell @TheAthletic. / X”
Cubs acquiring RHP Michael Soroka from Nationals, sources tell @TheAthletic.
