Story perspectives

Cubs Add Gausman, Holmes, Zeferjahn in Deadline Deal

8/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Chicago Cubs acquired starters Kevin Gausman and Clay Holmes at 2026 MLB trade deadline.
They also received reliever Ryan Zeferjahn (3.66 ERA, 75 strikeouts in 51.2 innings) and outfielder Tyrone Taylor.
Chicago sent Moisés Ballesteros, Jefferson Rojas, and prospects Brett Bateman, Ty Southisene and others.
General manager Hoyer called the rotation playoff-caliber, and Chicago kept a five-game NL Central lead and the Wild Card spot with 50 games left.

History

Historical Context

When the Cubs dealt Greg Maddux to the Atlanta Braves before the 1993 season, the Braves built the Hall-of-Fame “Big Three” that captured the 1995 World Series after posting a 90-win NL East title. In 2026, Cubs GM Carter Hoyer added Kevin Gausman, Clay Holmes and outfielder Tyrone Taylor, hoping a similar pitching boost can turn a five-game lead into a championship.

1 of 2

Story summary

The Chicago Cubs acquired starters Kevin Gausman and Clay Holmes at 2026 MLB trade deadline.
They also received reliever Ryan Zeferjahn (3.66 ERA, 75 strikeouts in 51.2 innings) and outfielder Tyrone Taylor.
Chicago sent Moisés Ballesteros, Jefferson Rojas, and prospects Brett Bateman, Ty Southisene and others.
General manager Hoyer called the rotation playoff-caliber, and Chicago kept a five-game NL Central lead and the Wild Card spot with 50 games left.

1 / 2