The Chicago Cubs’ decision to acquire Mike Soroka from the Nationals at the Trade Deadline is looking like a gamble that may not have paid off. Soroka, a right-handed pitcher with an extensive injury history, was signed for a manageable cost despite his struggling performance this year. However, just two innings into his Cubs debut, Soroka felt pain in his shoulder and has been placed on the Injured List.
The official diagnosis is a “right shoulder strain,” which is considered a muscular issue rather than a structural one. While not ideal, it’s better than a more serious injury that would have ended his season. Soroka will be out for 7-10 days and will be re-evaluated after that.
Cubs President Jed Hoyer acknowledged the risks associated with Soroka’s acquisition, stating, “We knew the velocity was trending down… We felt like it was a good bet to make, but right now it’s not looking like a good bet.” The organization did extensive research and due diligence on Soroka’s injury history, but ultimately, their gamble may not have worked out.
Source: https://www.bleachernation.com/cubs/2025/08/06/mike-sorokas-status-and-the-risks-the-cubs-took