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12 hours ago
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The Chicago Cubs are in need of help in the starting rotation. They could swing a blockbuster trade to bring a potential superstar to their rotation as the division race gets tight.
Shōta Imanaga and Matthew Boyd have both had great seasons, but the Cubs are without Justin Steele. Boyd and Imanaga may not be enough to make a deep run, and ESPN's Jeff Passan suggested the Cubs trade for Shane Bieber of the Cleveland Guardians.
"Chicago needs to land at least one starting pitcher at this deadline, and the former AL Cy Young winner is very available," wrote Passan. "He still hasn't pitched in the big leagues this season, but his stuff has looked crisp during his three minor league outings, according to scouts who have seen him, and the acquisition cost won't be nearly as prohibitive as that of getting other pitchers. The ceiling, meanwhile, could be every bit as high, and while there's inherent risk involved with a pitcher coming off Tommy John surgery -- particularly one with a $16 million player option -- it's a risk a team like the Cubs should feel plenty comfortable taking."
Bieber is a two-time All-Star, Triple Crown winner, Cy Young Award winner and ERA champion. However, he has struggled to stay healthy. If the Cubs are confident he can finish out the season, he could be a great addition.
He has a 2.91 ERA in 82 starts since 2020. He would be a massive upgrade from the likes of Colin Rea and Cade Horton in the starting rotation. With the Milwaukee Brewers showing no signs of slowing down, the Cubs need to make a move.
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The Cubs once led the Brewers by 6 1/2 games in the National League Central. Entering play on Tuesday, the Brewers have a one-game lead over the Cubs and are one of the best teams in the sport.
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