The Chicago Cubs made a significant decision when they acquired starting pitcher Mike Soroka just prior to the recent trading deadline, a move that now appears to carry considerable risk. Soroka, in his initial start with the Cubs, exited the game after only two innings due to shoulder discomfort and has subsequently been placed on the injured list.

Jed Hoyer, the Cubs' president of baseball operations, reflected on the trade, acknowledging that, with hindsight, the transaction does not seem favorable. Hoyer remarked, "We knew the velocity was trending down. We talked through that extensively. Given the market, given the asking price ... we felt like it was a good bet to make. Right now, it's not looking like a good bet." In his last few appearances for the Washington Nationals, Soroka's velocity had already begun to decline, prompting concerns about a potential injury. Although an MRI was conducted and did not reveal any injuries, the situation remains uncertain.

This season, Soroka has recorded a 3-8 record with a 4.86 ERA and a 1.13 WHIP over 17 starts. The duration of his absence from the rotation is yet to be determined, but any extended injury would pose a significant setback for the Cubs as they aim to assemble a formidable postseason run.