Cubs Target Pitching, Third Base at Trade Deadline

The Chicago Cubs, trailing the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central, are now targeting both starting pitching and third base upgrades ahead of the July 31 MLB trade deadline. While the Cubs have previously eyed pitching help, they are now also linked to Nationals All-Star MacKenzie Gore, Marlins righty Edward Cabrera, and Arizona third baseman Eugenio Suárez. Recent struggles in the rotation and inconsistent production from rookie Matt Shaw at third have heightened urgency for reinforcements. Insiders report the Cubs may go 'all-in,' using their deep farm system and surplus of young hitters in trade talks. Competition for top trade targets is expected to be intense. The success of these moves could determine the Cubs' playoff hopes and their ability to overtake the Brewers.