t was only a matter of time before the Chicago Cubs’ starting rotation started to feel the effects of missing its two aces in Justin Steele and Shota Imanaga. That time has officially come, and it may be time for Chicago to explore its options on the trade market.
The trio of Matthew Boyd, Colin Rea and Ben Brown combined to allow 18 runs in just 13 1/3 innings pitched in the Cubs weekend series against the Reds. Poor pitching performances such as those are going to cost Chicago a postseason appearance if things do not quickly change.
Here are three starting pitchers the Cubs should target prior to the trade deadline.
Kevin Gausman, Toronto Blue Jays
Gausman is the ace on a Blue Jays team that looks to be a bit stuck. It is unclear if they are going to try and contend in the AL East this season, but if Toronto decides to make moves, Gausman could be a prime trade candidate for the Cubs.
He’s been an extremely reliable pitcher over the past four seasons, as he’s made over 30 starts and finished with a season ERA under 3.85 in each of those seasons. Last season, he led MLB with two complete games, including a complete-game shutout.
Gausman could join the Cubs rotation and replace Ben Brown, who has a 6.39 ERA in 10 starts this season. With a proven and trusted arm like Gausman in the rotation, the Cubs rotation depth is among the best in baseball when Imanaga returns from his injury.
Zac Gallen, Arizona Diamondbacks
This may seem a little far-fetched, but when really looking at it, it may be more of a possibility then some would think. Gallen is in the last year of his contract with the Diamondbacks and with their recent struggles, he could be on the move if they continue.