Cubs pursue starting pitching as trade deadline approaches

As the 2026 MLB trade deadline nears, the Chicago Cubs are in urgent need of starting pitching due to injuries and underperformance from current starters. ESPN insider Buster Olney emphasizes that the Cubs are fortunate, as this year's market offers a wide array of available pitchers. Potential trade targets include Freddy Peralta, Clay Holmes, and Foster Griffin from the NL East, alongside starters from the NL West and AL East, such as Robbie Ray and Kevin Gausman. The Cubs could have nearly 20 trade options available, with expectations of more options surfacing as the deadline approaches on August 3.

• 3:13 PMYahoo Sports — ESPN insider reveals why Cubs are 'fortunate' amid starting rotation need