Cubs-Athletics blockbuster trade idea sends All-Star closer to Chicago

The Chicago Cubs are currently 46-30 and hold a four-and-a-half game lead over the Milwaukee Brewers for first place in the National League Central.

Chicago has scuffled recently, and the Brewers and Cardinals are surging. The Cubs desperately need pitching help to assist its dynamic lineup.

The starting rotation has dealt with injuries to its two best starters, Justin Steele and Shota Imanaga. Imanaga will return this week against the Cardinals, but Steele is out for the season.

It’s rumored that the Cubs will be aggressive at the trade deadline and starting pitching will be the top priority, but Chicago will more than likely look to acquire a quality reliever or two as well.

The bullpen has been electric since it allowed 10 runs in the eighth inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks on April 18, but the bullpen can always be stronger.

FanSided’s Christopher Kline named three dream relievers the Cubs should pursue, including an All-Star closer from the American League West.

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Athletics flamethrowing right-hander Mason Miller could be a potential target for the Cubs at the trade deadline.

Miller, 26, hasn’t looked nearly as dominant as he did last season but a change of scenery to a division-leading team could bring him back to form.

Miller has 14 saves and is 1-2 with a 5.02 ERA and a 1.19 WHIP in 28 appearances. Miller was great in March and April, posting nine saves and a 1.64 ERA through 11 innings.

He has gotten roughed up over the past two months, but a trade to the Cubs could give Miller a needed boost.

“Miller still packs elite velocity and generates a metric ton of swing-and-misses, but the results are far more volatile this season,” wrote Kline.

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