BLUE JAYS SEND PEARSON PACKING
The Chicago Cubs acquired pitcher Nate Pearson from the Toronto Blue Jays for infielder Josh Rivera and outfielder Yohendrick Pinango.
What does it give the Chicago Cubs
This feels like an addition for the 2025 version of the Chicago Cubs, instead of adding a reliever for the stretch drive. Pearson has a few years of control left before hitting free agency, so the Cubs could benefit from this trade for multiple years. To make that a reality, they will need the 27-year-old Pearson to continue developing into a high-leverage reliever. He has always been known to have good stuff, but his lack of consistency and propensity to give up the long ball has held him back at times. The hope in Chicago will be that a new pitching coach can unlock Pearson's untapped potential, and that Pearson can start locking down games for them.
What does it give the Toronto Blue Jays
Some thought the Blue Jays would just move the players on expiring contracts. This trade shows they are in full selling mode. Pearson had been a top pitching prospect for forever in Toronto, never living up to his starter potential (or being able to stick in the bullpen for a full season). Rivera has spent the season at Double-A ball. It has been a rough 2024 for him (.169 BA, 4 HR in 68 games). The Jays hope the 2023 third-round pick can get back on track with a change of scenery. Pinango was also playing in Double-A ball after getting promoted earlier this season. The left-handed hitter was the 29th-ranked prospect for the Cubs (MLB.com).
Fantasy impact
Pearson has disappointed fantasy managers for years. His best chance of providing value to a fantasy roster now is if he can finally prove to be a consistent strike thrower and high-leverage reliever. Maybe playing for a new team will be the ideal time to grab him. Keep an eye on his usage to finish the season; maybe he can be a sleeper in 2025. Rivera and Pinango can be ignored for the time being.
