Cubs Swap Reliever Wantz for Veteran Jake Woodford Ahead of Deadline
The Chicago Cubs designated reliever Andrew Wantz for assignment and promoted former first-round pick Jake Woodford as the trade deadline approaches.
In a roster adjustment made just before the MLB trade deadline, the Chicago Cubs designated Andrew Wantz for assignment, removing him from the active list after his recent two-inning relief appearance. To keep the bullpen fully staffed, the club promoted Jake Woodford, a veteran right-hander who was originally a first-round draft pick of the St. Louis Cardinals in 2015. Woodford has previously appeared for Chicago this year, surrendering runs in a brief stint that left his ERA at 13.50.
The front office framed the transaction as a practical solution to an immediate roster crunch rather than a long-term evaluation of Wantz. Analysts note that Woodford’s spot may be temporary if the Cubs acquire additional pitching talent before the August 3 deadline, a scenario that could force further roster moves. This maneuver reflects the team's strategy of balancing present needs with the expectation of more significant acquisitions in the final days of the trade window.
Why it matters
The move shows how the Cubs are managing bullpen depth while still hunting for major pitching upgrades before the deadline.
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