Cubs Manage Multiple Injuries, Eye Starting Pitching Reinforcements

The Chicago Cubs are navigating a challenging injury situation as they approach the trade deadline, with key players like Justin Steele and Jameson Taillon sidelined and others like Javier Assad and Brandon Birdsell also on the injured list. Despite Ian Happ's recent shin injury, the Cubs received positive news that he will not require time on the injured list, allowing him to remain active while prospect Moises Ballesteros was called up as a precaution. Catcher Miguel Amaya is making progress in his rehab assignments and could return to the major league roster soon, potentially leading the Cubs to carry three catchers temporarily. The team is actively pursuing starting pitching help, showing interest in arms such as Orioles’ Zach Eflin and Guardians’ Shane Bieber, reflecting the urgency to bolster their rotation amid ongoing injuries. Although some pitchers like Assad and Taillon are expected back in a few weeks, the Cubs plan to proceed with acquiring pitching reinforcements regardless of their imminent returns. Overall, the Cubs are balancing short-term roster adjustments with strategic moves to strengthen their playoff rotation as the season intensifies.