The Chicago Cubs are actively pursuing pitching reinforcements ahead of the upcoming MLB trade deadline, following a split of their recent two-game series against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Chicago holds the top National League Wild Card spot while attempting to close a 5.5-game gap on the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers.
Front-office leaders have focused on securing controllable starting pitching and bullpen depth after designating veteran starter Jameson Taillon for assignment.
Offense Leading the Way
Since June 11, the Cubs have gone 27-12 while averaging 6.4 runs per game, leading Major League Baseball in runs scored, on-base percentage, and walks during that stretch.
Second baseman Nico Hoerner acknowledged the urgency surrounding the deadline but expressed confidence in the team's core.
"It's always their job to put the best possible team that they can on the field," Hoerner said.
"Absolutely, there's urgency. These games go by fast, and the season gets short."
Veteran left fielder Ian Happ noted the challenging nature of roster adjustments, balancing additions with the impact on current players.
"It's challenging, because the guys that got you to this point are obviously important pieces," Happ said. "So, whenever you add, there's going to be subtraction."
Happ expressed trust in management's decisions and belief in the lineup's ability to maintain its productivity.
"We have so many good players in this lineup that play every day," he said.
"I have all the confidence in the world this group is going to put up those kinds of numbers."
Pitching Depth and Reinforcements
Starting pitcher Matthew Boyd highlighted potential pitching support scheduled to return from injury in August and September.
"We've gotten to where we are with the team we have, and we still have reinforcements coming," Boyd said.
"Whatever situation does play out, our job doesn't change. It's to win."
Right-hander Colin Rea noted the challenge opposing pitchers face against Chicago's balanced lineup, complemented by an MLB-leading 47 Fielding Run Value on defense.
Shortstop Dansby Swanson emphasized the consistency of the position-player group, which has remained healthy and productive.
"The one thing that's been so consistent is, obviously, the position-player group that has, fortunately, been able to stay healthy and show up every day," Swanson said.
Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer previously voiced faith in the position players' potential impact.
"Our position-playing group is really, really good," Hoyer said. "That's a group that could win a lot of games in October."
Chicago continues its road schedule while right-hander Edward Cabrera prepares for a Triple-A rehab assignment with Iowa ahead of a potential late-August return.
