The Chicago Cubs are looking to bolster their roster ahead of the July 31st trade deadline. Sitting atop the NL Central with a five-game lead, they aim to maintain their momentum by upgrading their pitching staff, which has struggled due to injuries affecting key players like Justin Steele and Shota Imanaga. While their offense is among the league's best, ranking second in runs scored, their starting rotation currently ranks 19th, as noted by FanGraphs.

President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer confirmed the Cubs are actively exploring trade options. Reports indicate that they have an eye on Zach Eflin, a starter for the Baltimore Orioles, who is scheduled to pitch against the Detroit Tigers. Eflin, 31, has a 5-2 record with a 4.47 ERA this season, demonstrating his value as an innings-eater with postseason experience. Acquiring Eflin could provide the Cubs with much-needed consistency and leadership as they look to end a four-year playoff drought.