Cubs' pitching needs loom as trade deadline nears amid title-anniversary weekend

Taillon returns this week, Cabrera in three weeks

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jul 191 min read

What happened: The Chicago Cubs marked the 10th anniversary of their 2016 World Series title at Wrigley Field over the weekend, unveiling a Champions Gate and honoring the 2016 championship team. Michael Busch hit a home run into the bleachers during the festivities. Cubs president Jed Hoyer says the team needs more pitching depth before the August 3 deadline.

Why it matters: Chicago has churned through hot and cold stretches all season but enters the stretch run atop the NL Wild Card race after going 20-8 before the break. Jameson Taillon is expected back this week and Edward Cabrera in three weeks, while closer Daniel Palencia stays out until at least mid-August, leaving a bullpen gap the front office wants to address at the deadline.

By the numbers: Cubs are 49-43 this season, scoring 4.9 runs and allowing 4.5 per game, on a one-game winning streak. Twins are 46-44, on a one-game losing streak. The two teams have split their last two meetings, and Sunday's series finale is listed at Chicago with an 5.

What to watch: The Twins and Cubs play the series finale Sunday with the score 0-0 and the series tied 1-1.

Sources

Yahoo MLB 2026-07-19T10:25:56.835733+00:00

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