The Chicago Cubs' starting rotation could use some upgrades as they gear up for a postseason run. The Cubs have a one-game lead in the National League Central going into the All-Star Break.
The Chicago Cubs' starting rotation could use some upgrades as they gear up for a postseason run. The Cubs have a one-game lead in the National League Central going into the All-Star Break.
The Cubs' rotation will be without Justin Steele for the rest of the season after he underwent elbow surgery. Shōta Imanaga and Matthew Boyd have been great, but the rest of the rotation lacks consistency. The Arizona Diamondbacks could emerge as trade partners if the Cubs target starting pitchers.
Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly are both being made available by the Diamondbacks, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale. Jim Riley of BALLCAP Sports predicted the Cubs would trade for Kelly before the trade deadline.
Kelly is 36 years old, but still has some gas left in the tank. He has a 3.34 ERA in 20 starts this season. The Diamondbacks are 10-10 in his starts. However, the Cubs' offense could take better advantage of his success on the mound.
Kelly may not be the biggest name, but he could slot in as a solid No. 3 option for the Cubs. The Cubs looked like they could run away with the division at one point, but now they seem destined for a race to the finish line with the Milwaukee Brewers.
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Adding Kelly would give them a huge boost down the stretch. Additionally, he would give the Cubs a better third starter in October. There is a sense of urgency to win this season for the Cubs. They could lose Kyle Tucker in free agency, and adding Kelly could better their chances of winning this year.
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Category: Baseball
