The Chicago Cubs are 4-0 in July and continue to build on their strong campaign.
The Cubs had a Fourth of July to remember, clubbing a franchise record eight home runs in an 11-3 win over their bitter rival St. Louis Cardinals.
Right-hander Colin Rea pitched 6.2 innings of one-run ball, but the Cubs still need to focus on making pitching upgrades before the trade deadline.
Zachary Rotman of FanSided believes the Cubs can win the trade deadline by pushing for a starter and reliever from a National League Central foe.
Pittsburgh Pirates righty Mitch Keller has been linked to the Cubs, with reports saying the two sides have been engaged in trade talks for the former All-Star. Adding two-time All-Star closer David Bednar to the mix would be an amazing trade for Chicago.
“While Keller would be a perfect fit for Chicago's rotation, they could use bullpen help as well. That's where David Bednar comes in,” wrote Rotman. “The Cubs' bullpen has been good, particularly lately, but how trustworthy is this unit come October?”
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The Cubs bullpen has been one of, if not the best unit in Major League Baseball for quite a while now. Daniel Palencia has settled in as the team’s closer, but his lack of experience could hinder his success down the stretch.
Bednar, 30, was an All-Star in 2022 and 2023 and recorded 58 saves over those two seasons. He is 2-5 with a 2.73 ERA and a 1.15 WHIP in 33 appearances this season. He has converted all 12 of his save opportunities.
Keller, 29, was an All-Star in 2023 and has been nothing but consistent for the Pirates. His 3-10 record is a result of Pittsburgh’s bleak offense, as he has pitched to a 3.64 ERA in 18 starts this season.
This trade could be difficult to pull off, not because of limited assets, but because both players aren't on expiring deals and nobody knows if Pittsburgh is reluctant to deal with a heated rival.
However, Rotman thinks it’s possible if the Cubs outbid all other suitors. Both arms would be great additions for Chicago and help them in their quest of a deep postseason run.
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