As the MLB trade deadline approaches, all eyes are on the Chicago Cubs as they make a push for the playoffs. While the team has had a strong first half of the season, there is one area that needs to be addressed if they truly want to make a run for the World Series – starting pitching.
The Cubs currently have a strong rotation led by ace pitchers Jake Arrieta and Jon Lester. However, after these two veterans, the rotation is a bit shaky. Kyle Hendricks has been solid, but the rest of the starters have struggled with consistency. This is where the need for a new starting pitcher becomes crucial.
The good news is that there are plenty of potential trade chips on the market that could be the missing piece to the Cubs’ puzzle. With the right acquisition, the Cubs could solidify their rotation and establish themselves as serious contenders in the postseason.
One name that has been circulating in trade talks is Madison Bumgarner of the San Francisco Giants. The left-handed pitcher is a proven postseason performer, with three World Series rings and a World Series MVP under his belt. Despite being on the wrong side of 30 and coming off an injury, Bumgarner is still considered one of the top pitchers in the game. He would bring valuable experience and leadership to the Cubs’ rotation and could be just the boost the team needs to make a deep playoff run.
Another potential trade chip could be Marcus Stroman of the Toronto Blue Jays. Although the Blue Jays have expressed reluctance to trade him, Stroman’s name has been mentioned in various rumors. The 27-year-old right-hander has been having a strong season, with a 2.96 ERA and 80 strikeouts in 91 innings pitched. He also has experience pitching in the high-pressure atmosphere of the American League East, which could be beneficial for the Cubs in a potential playoff run.
One thing is for certain – the Cubs need a pitcher who can eat up innings and provide quality starts. This is where Zack Wheeler of the New York Mets could be a perfect fit. The 29-year-old right-hander has had his fair share of injuries, but when healthy, he has shown glimpses of dominance. With a 3.51 ERA and 130 strikeouts in 119 innings pitched this season, Wheeler could be a valuable addition to the Cubs’ rotation.
Aside from these big names, there are also some lesser-known pitchers who could be valuable trade chips. One of them is Matthew Boyd of the Detroit Tigers. The 28-year-old left-hander has been having a breakout season, with a 3.87 ERA and 142 strikeouts in 109 innings pitched. He also has a team-friendly contract, making him an attractive option for the Cubs.
Another potential trade target is Tanner Roark of the Cincinnati Reds. The 32-year-old right-hander has been having a solid season, posting a 3.51 ERA and 100 strikeouts in 105 innings pitched. He also has postseason experience with the Washington Nationals, which could come in handy for the Cubs.
Of course, it’s not just about acquiring a new pitcher – the Cubs also need to consider who they are willing to give up in a trade. The team has a deep farm system with plenty of talented prospects that could be used as trade bait. One name that stands out is outfielder Ian Happ, who has shown flashes of his potential in the majors but has struggled with consistency. The Cubs could also part ways with younger prospects such as Nico Hoerner or Adbert Alzolay if it means landing a top-tier starting pitcher.
In the end, it all comes down to the Cubs’ front office making the right moves before the trade deadline. With the team’s window for a championship still open, it’s crucial that they make the necessary moves to improve their starting rotation. The perfect trade chip is out there, and the Cubs need to be aggressive in finding and acquiring them.
The good news is that they have a talented roster and a strong farm system to work with. With the addition of a top-tier starting pitcher, the Cubs would not only solidify their chances for the playoffs but also increase their chances of winning it all. The second half of the season is crucial, and the Cubs cannot afford to sit back and be complacent. The time to strike is now, and with the right trade chip, the Cubs can become a force to be reckoned with in the postseason. So let
