Cubs Seek Starting Pitchers, Third Basemen Ahead MLB Trade Deadline

The Chicago Cubs are in a tight race with the Milwaukee Brewers for the top spot in the National League Central, both holding identical 59-40 records as of July 21, 2025. Despite their strong offense led by Kyle Tucker and Pete Crow-Armstrong, the Cubs' pitching staff remains a significant concern, especially with injuries to key starters Justin Steele and Jameson Taillon. To strengthen their rotation, the Cubs are actively pursuing several starting pitchers, including Mitch Keller, Merrill Kelly, Zac Gallen, Sandy Alcantara, Edward Cabrera, Charlie Morton, and Tomoyuki Sugano, while also exploring options to upgrade third base. General Manager Jed Hoyer has emphasized a willingness to be creative in acquiring talent and indicated that no player, including top prospects like Owen Caissie, is untouchable in trade talks. CBS Sports predicts the Cubs may acquire Royals ace Seth Lugo, a pitcher with strong recent performance, potentially in exchange for Caissie and Jordan Wicks, which would provide a solid third starter for postseason contention. Overall, the Cubs are expected to be aggressive buyers at the trade deadline to capitalize on what could be a pivotal season with their dynamic offensive duo.