Cubs Seek Multiple Aces in Trade Deadline Pursuit

The Chicago Cubs are actively seeking to strengthen their starting rotation ahead of the MLB trade deadline, recognizing it as their most significant weakness despite their strong overall record tied for first in the NL Central. They have shown interest in several high-profile pitchers, including Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins, who offers team control through 2028 and impressive pitching metrics, and MacKenzie Gore of the Washington Nationals, an All-Star with two years of club control remaining, though acquiring Gore would come at a steep cost likely involving top prospects such as Owen Caissie. Additionally, the Cubs have explored acquiring Adrian Houser from the White Sox, a free agent at season's end who could stabilize their rotation at a potentially lower cost. These targeted acquisitions reflect the Cubs' urgency to improve their rotation depth and quality to enhance their playoff chances, especially as competition tightens with teams like the Brewers, Mets, and Dodgers. While prospects like Cade Horton show promise, the Cubs' front office is focused on securing established frontline starters to convert their strong regular-season position into a postseason run.