Cubs President Theo Epstein stressed two weeks ago that he looked forward to watching Kyle Schwarber return to the Chicago Cubs' lineup next season.
Friday, Epstein all but reiterated that there are a few Cubs players he can't envision trading with the Aug. 1 deadline approaching.
"I've always said I don't believe in true untouchables," Epstein said. "But there are guys who we believe in so much and believe in as part of our core and our identity that it would be impracticable to envision a deal.
"It's almost impossible to envision a deal that would make sense with them. But if you start with untouchables, you limit yourself. You're always willing to have a conversation."
Epstein said he and his staff continue to look hard at various ways to improve the Cubs, adding that they weren't surprised by some of the recent deals involving other teams. Epstein added that the Cubs aren't looking to improve in just one area.
"The way you look now may not be the way you look in September," Epstein said. It's having an opening mind, and things are going to change. We're going to have injuries the rest of the way, we're going to have guys step up and improve. We're going to have guys who stubble and be open minding to adding talented players in different roles knowing that can help us down the line.
"The more talent you have as long as you don't distract from the chemistry of the group is always important."
