Reportedly: Could Luis Severino Be on the Move Amidst Early Season Struggles?
Reportedly: Could Luis Severino Be on the Move Amidst Early Season Struggles?
Veteran right-hander Luis Severino was brutally honest about his performance following his latest start for the Oakland Athletics. Despite the team’s eventual 7-6 walk-off win against the White Sox, Severino’s outing was far from the dominant display the A’s had hoped for when they signed him to a two-year, $45 million contract. The former All-Star struggled with his command and was under constant pressure, leading to a quick hook and a bullpen-heavy afternoon. Severino admitted post-game that his execution was lacking, noting that he needs to be better for the young squad he is supposed to lead.
However, the real story might be developing away from the diamond. According to recent reports and growing industry chatter, the Chicago Cubs have reportedly identified Severino as a primary target for a mid-season rotation upgrade. The Cubs, who are currently dealing with a devastating injury to Cade Horton (Tommy John surgery), are in desperate need of a veteran arm who can eat innings and provide strikeout upside. Severino, currently pitching for an Athletics team in transition, fits the profile of a “floor-raiser” that a contending club like Chicago might seek to stabilize their staff.
The Performance vs. The Potential
Severino’s early 2026 stats tell a tale of two pitchers. While he has managed to maintain a solid strikeout rate—collecting 24 punchouts over his first 19.1 innings—his ERA and WHIP have been dangerously high. His tendency to give up hard contact has been a concern, evidenced by the early 5-run burst the White Sox managed in his vicinity on Saturday. Despite these metrics, his veteran experience and high-90s sinker remain attractive to scouts who believe a change of scenery and a more competitive environment could unlock his previous All-Star form.
For the Athletics, the logic of a trade is clear. While Severino was brought in to provide stability, the emergence of younger arms and the team’s current position in the standings may make him a valuable trade chip. Acquiring prospects like Brandon Birdsell or Riley Martin from the Cubs’ system could align better with the A’s long-term timeline, particularly as they look toward their eventual move to Las Vegas. Severino is currently signed through 2026 with a player option for 2027, making his contract manageable for a team willing to take a calculated risk.
Chicago's Pitching Void
The Cubs find themselves in a difficult position. With Horton out and Matthew Boyd dealing with biceps issues, the rotation is currently leaning heavily on unproven talent. Adding a pitcher with Severino’s resume would provide a psychological boost to the clubhouse and a physical relief to the bullpen. While a formal offer has not been confirmed, sources close to the situation suggest that talks could intensify if Severino shows even a slight uptick in consistency over his next two starts.
As the April 19 deadline for early-season evaluations passes, the pressure is on Severino to perform. Whether he remains a cornerstone in West Sacramento or becomes the newest member of the Cubs' rotation remains the most intriguing storyline surrounding the A's this month. For now, Severino is focused on the mound, but the rumors are undeniably swirling.
