The Chicago Cubs are trying to get into the postseason and potentially win the National League Central, but they need some help in the rotation.
Cade Horton will not return this year, and Justin Steele's return is up in the air. Ben Brown, Edward Cabrera and Jameson Taillon are all currently on the injured list as well. Despite all of that, the Cubs are 4 1/2 games up in the wild card race. They trail the Milwaukee Brewers by six games in the National League Central.
There figures to be no shortage of pitching available at the deadline, and The Athletic's Jim Bowden proposed this trade to bring Kansas City Royals All-Star Michael Wacha to Chicago:
- Cubs receive: Michael Wacha
- Royals receive: Matt Shaw and Kevin Alcántara
Neither Alcántara or Shaw can find a regular spot in the Cubs lineup, and the team would be wise to trade them. Shaw can play multiple positions and could be a great player when given an everyday role. Alcántara has thrived in Triple-A and could aso breakout on a team where he plays regularly.
Wacha has a 3.77 ERA in 19 starts this season, and would instantly slot in near the top of the Cubs' rotation. He is a veteran starter with postseason experience, and has even pitched in a World Series. He could be a great addition to a Cubs team waiting to get healthy and make a run.