The Chicago Cubs are actively exploring trades to bolster their roster ahead of the deadline, focusing particularly on acquiring an impactful starting pitcher. Sandy Alcantara and Mitch Keller are at the top of their wishlist for rotation improvements as the Cubs aim for a playoff push with a strong standing in the NL Central. Additionally, the team is eyeing offensive upgrades, especially at third base, where Matt Shaw has shown defensive prowess but lacks offensive consistency. The Cubs are considering adding veteran Justin Turner for his postseason experience, although his performance has been inconsistent. They are also monitoring Eugenio Suarez from the Arizona Diamondbacks, who could provide a significant offensive boost if available.

As the July 31 MLB trade deadline approaches, speculation intensifies around potential trades. Notable names in the trade market include Ryan McMahon of the Colorado Rockies, who has shown consistent performance but is evolving his game. Freddy Peralta from the Milwaukee Brewers, a top starter, could be moved as they assess their roster options. Eugenio Suárez of the Arizona Diamondbacks is enjoying a stellar season, while teammates Merrill Kelly and Sandy Alcantara are also attracting interest. The St. Louis Cardinals have their own considerations with Nolan Arenado and Ryan Helsley, each with different scenarios influencing their future.

The market could shift rapidly, influenced by team standings and the impending postseason. Players like Cedric Mullins and Mitch Keller are also under the microscope, along with others who may not have been on this initial list. With every team evaluating their potential for postseason contention, the next few weeks promise significant changes across the league.

The Chicago Cubs are reportedly seeking to strengthen their starting rotation following the season-ending injury to Justin Steele. They've linked themselves to Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara and have been speculated to be interested in acquiring both Alcantara and Edward Cabrera in a potential trade. ESPN analysts suggest a 60% chance Alcantara could be dealt due to the Marlins' struggles this season. The Cubs' rotation has faced challenges with only Shota Imanaga and Matthew Boyd providing positive bWAR this season. The acquisition of Alcantara and Cabrera could significantly bolster the Cubs' chances as they aim for success.

Kerry Miller from Bleacher Report highlighted that the deal would likely require a significant package, potentially involving five top Cubs prospects. The Marlins would benefit from this trade, advancing their rebuild efforts. Alcantara, despite a rough start to the season, has shown signs of recovery, and Cabrera presents a solid option for the Cubs to consider. This trade could pave the way for a stronger Cubs rotation and a more competitive season.

Aaron Judge etched his name in history during a recent game, notching his 44th career multi-homer game, the most achieved in the first 1,076 games of a player’s career. This remarkable feat places him among the Yankees’ elite, joining legends like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, and Lou Gehrig. With two home runs, he has secured third place on the Yankees' all-time multi-homer list, trailing only Ruth and Mantle. Judge's achievement is particularly notable as he reached this milestone in fewer games than the aforementioned legends.

This multi-homer performance comes as a relief for the Yankees, who had just suffered through a difficult stretch, including multiple shutouts. Judge displayed leadership by attributing his success to the team’s efforts rather than personal momentum from hitting. His two home runs, alongside contributions from Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Cody Bellinger, represent a significant turnaround for the Yankees' offense.

The Miami Marlins continued their impressive run, securing a 6-4 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks, completing a three-game sweep. Otto Lopez delivered a pivotal two-run single, giving the Marlins a lead in the eighth inning. Kyle Stowers added a three-run double, extending Miami's advantage as they maintained their winning streak to seven games.

Arizona had initially taken a 2-1 lead, but their pitching woes, characterized by ten walks, allowed the Marlins to capitalize. Jalen Beeks struggled on the mound, giving up five earned runs in just two outs. Despite Eduardo Rodríguez's strong performance, the Diamondbacks fell to 41-42, now below .500.