The Chicago Cubs hold just a two-game lead over the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central. They could use some help in the starting rotation.
Ben Brown, Colin Rea, Jameson Taillon and Cade Horton all hold ERAs over 4.00 this season. Shōta Imanaga and Matthew Boyd have been great for the Cubs, but the loss of Justin Steele has hit them hard. They are already showing interest in Mitch Keller, and could explore other options at the trade deadline.
The trade deadline could have a limited number of starting pitchers available. Many teams are still within striking distance of a postseason spot. However, Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter proposed this deal that would bring a quality starter from the Tampa Bay Rays to the Cubs:
- Cubs receive: RHP Drew Rasmussen
- Rays receive: OF Owen Caissie (Cubs No. 1 prospect) and SS Jefferson Rojas (Cubs No. 4 prospect)
The Rays are actually playing well and could get into October. They are just 1 1/2 games out of the American League East lead. However, as an organization, they have always operated with one eye on the future. Rasmussen has been great this year, and with club control through 2027, he could yield them a haul.
Follow The Sporting News On WhatsApp
Giving up Caissie and Rojas would be expensive for the Cubs. However, this may end up being their only season with Kyle Tucker on the roster, and it may force them to go “all in” on this year. Rasmussen has a 2.78 ERA this season and could be a huge factor in the Cubs making the postseason. Meanwhile, the Rays would still be able to field a competitive team and continue their push for the postseason.
More MLB: Mets trade for Orioles veteran would ‘rescue’ rotation after Griffin Canning news
