The Chicago Cubs are intensifying their efforts to strengthen their starting rotation before the trade deadline, as they compete tightly with the Milwaukee Brewers for the NL Central lead. One of their primary targets has been MacKenzie Gore of the Washington Nationals, who has impressed this season despite a losing record.

Gore, regarded as the Nationals’ best starting pitcher this year, has made 21 starts with a 3.52 ERA, accumulating 144 strikeouts against only 44 walks. However, Washington is demanding a steep price for any trade, reportedly requiring the Cubs to include their promising third baseman, Matt Shaw, in any deal.

Matt Shaw’s Emerging Role Affects Trade Prospects

Matt Shaw, who debuted this season after being a first-round draft pick, has shown potential despite modest initial statistics. He has 25 RBIs and six home runs, hitting a .223/.291/.355 line overall. Notably, Shaw’s performance has surged over his most recent 15 games, lifting his slash line to an impressive .295/.304/.636, which has increased his trade value and contributed to the hesitation in Chicago’s pursuit of Gore.

Other Starting Pitchers Under Consideration

While the Cubs would prefer to add young talent like Gore, they remain open to acquiring veteran starters on short-term contracts to bolster their postseason chances. Among these is Merrill Kelly of the Arizona Diamondbacks, a reliable 37-year-old right-hander with a 9-6 record, a 3.22 ERA, and 121 strikeouts this season.

General manager conversations continue as the Cubs weigh their options, striving to improve their rotation depth ahead of the rapidly approaching trade deadline.

Implications for the Cubs’ Postseason Push

As the NL Central race intensifies, each addition to the Cubs’ pitching staff could prove critical in their bid to reach the playoffs. The current delay in the MacKenzie Gore trade talks, primarily due to Washington’s asking price, leaves the Cubs evaluating alternatives including veteran acquisitions and potential concessions of emerging prospects like Shaw.

The team is expected to make decisive moves before the deadline, given the high stakes in this divisional competition.

“Gore is not the only one on their radar. Even though they would rather get some young talent, they are willing to look at veterans for a short term commitment to help their chances for their postseason push.”

—Jesse Rogers, ESPN

“Washington is appearing unwilling to make a deal unless the Cubs part with third baseman, Matt Shaw.”

—Kiley McDaniel