Cubs could reportedly target pair of All-Star Pirates pitchers

The Chicago Cubs have seen their lead over the National League Central division shrink, with the upcoming trade deadline serving as a chance to inject pieces as they look ahead toward the playoffs. 

Despite sitting atop their division, the Cubs' pitching staff has been middle of the pack this season in ERA, WHIP and AVG against. If Chicago wants to be a true contender this season, adding a pitcher at the deadline can make a big impact down the line. 

Calls are reportedly already taking place between the Cubs and the Pirates for All-Stars Mitch Keller or David Bednar, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale. 

"Please, forget about the fantasy of the Pirates even considering trading ace Paul Skenes, so don’t even bother calling. Now, if you want starters Mitch Keller or Andrew Heaney, or closer David Bednar, or infielders Isiah Kiner-Falefa and Ke’Bryan Hayes, or outfielders Bryan Reynolds and Tommy Pham, the Pirates will have an operator standing by to take your calls."

"The Chicago Cubs, who have dominated the NL Central but have seen their lead getting a little too close for comfort, are one of the teams who would love to get their hands on Keller and Bednar. Every contender but seemingly the Seattle Mariners are seeking a starter, reliever or both. While there’s so little certainty, phone calls have already begun taking place, which will become much more frequent after the July 13-14 Draft in Atlanta."

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Keller, 29, was an All-Star in 2023, and despite a 1-10 record, has his lowest ERA and WHIP in the past three seasons, and could make a big impact in the Cubs' rotation. If Chicago would rather improve its bullpen, Pittsburgh also has two-time All-Star Bednar. 

After back-to-back All-Star selections in 2022 and 2023, Bednar struggled for the Pirates in 2024. He has rebounded nicely this season and looks more like his former self with a 1.12 WHIP and a strikeout-to-walk ratio of 4.9. Adding either of these former All-Stars at the trade deadline would be a great addition for the Cubs if they want to make a deep playoff run. 

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