The Chicago Cubs recently made a notable transaction by acquiring starting pitcher Mike Soroka ahead of the trade deadline. However, the move has already encountered significant challenges, as Soroka exited his first start with the Cubs after just two innings due to shoulder discomfort, leading to his placement on the injured list.

Jed Hoyer, the Cubs' president of baseball operations, acknowledged that the trade's outlook has soured following Soroka's injury. He remarked on the situation, stating, '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.' Soroka's recent performances with the Washington Nationals had shown declining velocity, a precursor to potential injury concerns.

Despite undergoing an MRI that did not reveal any injuries, Soroka's overall record for the season stands at 3-8, accompanied by a 4.86 ERA and a 1.13 WHIP over 17 starts. The duration of his absence from the rotation remains uncertain, and any long-term injury would pose significant implications for the Cubs as they aim for a successful postseason run.