In a move that has sent shockwaves through the North Side and beyond, Chicago Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer delivered a blunt and unexpected warning about the upcoming MLB trade market, sparking immediate and emotional reactions from fans, media, and players alike.

Speaking at a press conference Thursday morning, Hoyer addressed the Cubs’ recent struggles and disappointing performance in key games, but what truly rattled the fanbase was his candid and unusually sharp tone regarding potential roster moves.

“We are not going to sit on our hands while this team underperforms,” Hoyer said. “No one is untouchable. If we don’t see urgency on the field, we’ll create it ourselves in the front office.”

Cubs Nation in Shock

The comments came just days after the Cubs dropped four of six games in a crucial homestand, and with the MLB trade deadline just eight weeks away, many are reading between the lines—and bracing for a shakeup.

Within hours, social media was flooded with reactions. The phrase “No One Is Untouchable” began trending in Chicago, as speculation swirled about who Hoyer might be referring to. Could it mean beloved core players like Nico Hoerner, Christopher Morel, or even recently acquired Kyle Tucker are on the table?

On sports radio, emotions ran high.

“I can’t believe we’re talking about trading the guys we just built around,” one caller said on 670 The Score. “But maybe this is the wake-up call the team needs.”

Underperformance Sparks Urgency

While the Cubs came into the 2025 season with high hopes and a revamped roster—including the blockbuster addition of Tucker—the team has hovered around .500, struggling to gain momentum in a competitive National League Central division.

Insiders say that behind closed doors, Hoyer and his staff have grown increasingly frustrated by what they see as a lack of intensity and consistency from players who were expected to anchor a playoff push.

“Jed doesn’t make comments like this lightly,” said one Cubs beat writer. “If he’s saying it publicly, you can bet the internal discussions have already turned serious.”

Who Could Be On the Block?

Though no players were named directly, insiders believe several roster pieces may be in play if the team doesn’t improve—either to bring in veteran help or clear the way for younger talent.

Among the possibilities:

• Ian Happ, who has struggled to find rhythm at the plate.

• Jameson Taillon, a starting pitcher with value to contenders.

• Veteran relievers, especially if the Cubs decide to pivot toward youth.

But the most controversial potential move being whispered about? Trading Kyle Tucker, who is one of the team’s brightest stars but also carries immense trade value. While such a move seems unlikely, Hoyer’s “no one is untouchable” comment has opened the door for speculation.

Clubhouse Reaction

Players were reportedly surprised by the tone of Hoyer’s comments, though none spoke directly to media about it after Thursday’s practice.

Privately, sources say the message was heard loud and clear.

“Guys are on edge now,” one source close to the team said. “They know this is a make-or-break stretch. And they know Jed means business.”

Manager Craig Counsell appeared more measured when asked about the press conference.

“Look, this is the big leagues. Pressure is part of the job,” he said. “We all want to win, and when we don’t, these are the conversations that happen.”

Fans Demand Clarity

Meanwhile, Cubs fans are demanding transparency about the team’s direction.

Outside Wrigley Field, one fan held a handmade sign reading: “Build or Blow It Up — Just Be Honest!”

On fan forums, debate raged between those who support aggressive trades to push for the postseason and others who fear the Cubs may once again dismantle a team before it truly gels.

“I’ve seen this movie before,” one Reddit user posted. “We finally get hope, and then they pull the rug out from under us.”

What Comes Next?

With the trade deadline looming and the Cubs entering a critical 15-game stretch, all eyes are now on the front office. Will Hoyer back up his words with bold moves? Or will the team respond on the field and force a different conversation?

One thing is clear: the Cubs are officially on notice.

In a city that bleeds blue and white, this summer just got a lot hotter—and far more uncertain.

As Hoyer put it at the end of his statement:

“This is Chicago. Expectations are high. That’s not pressure. That’s privilege.”

And with those words, the clock starts ticking.