What we’re hearing about the Cubs’ pitching pursuits as the trade deadline nears

The Chicago Cubs defeated the Chicago White Sox 6-1, highlighted by Cade Horton's 6 1/3 scoreless innings and home runs from Ian Happ and Matt Shaw, moving them into a first-place tie with the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central.

The Cubs are actively pursuing trades before the deadline, showing strong interest in Washington Nationals' top-of-the-rotation pitcher MacKenzie Gore. Acquiring Gore, under team control through 2027, would address playoff needs and an offseason gap, but the cost is currently viewed as extremely high. Questions also exist about whether the Nationals' interim GM is positioned to make such a significant deal. Gore, 26, is performing well with a high strikeout rate and a 3.52 ERA.

While the Cubs are reportedly unwilling to trade top prospect Owen Caissie for a rental player, they would consider moving him in the right deal, potentially for a player like Gore. Caissie's strong performance at Triple-A Iowa has increased his value, and the Cubs recognize he could be needed in case of injury or for an offensive boost later in the season. Given his development and potential as an everyday major leaguer, the team is unlikely to trade him for only two months of a player.

The Cubs are also searching for late-inning relievers to bolster their bullpen, specifically targeting pitchers who can work in front of Daniel Palencia or share the closer role. Veteran reliever Raisel Iglesias of the Atlanta Braves is one option under consideration. Despite not having his best season overall, Iglesias has a history of success, a positive clubhouse reputation, and has been trending well recently, posting a 2.30 ERA over his last 15 2/3 innings.