Cubs, Reds Face Multiple Pitcher Injuries Impacting Trade, Rotation Plans

The Chicago Cubs have faced significant setbacks in their pitching rotation due to injuries to key players, complicating their search for trade targets ahead of the July 31 deadline. Chris Sale, the 2024 NL Cy Young winner with a 2.52 ERA, suffered a fractured left rib and has been moved to the 60-day injured list, effectively removing him from trade consideration. Another notable injury concern is Zach Eflin, a veteran pitcher with the Orioles, who has struggled with performance and multiple injuries and is currently on the injured list again. The Cubs also continue to deal with internal injuries, including ace Justin Steele's season-ending elbow surgery and Javier Assad's ongoing left oblique strain, delaying his return to competitive pitching. Positionally, catcher Miguel Amaya remains sidelined with a left oblique strain and is not expected back until after the All-Star break, though he has been a significant offensive contributor when healthy. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Reds provided positive updates on pitchers Hunter Greene and Graham Ashcraft, both progressing well in rehab and nearing potential returns, contrasting with the Cubs' more challenging injury situation.