The Chicago Cubs have bolstered their starting rotation by acquiring right-hander Michael Soroka from the Washington Nationals. This move comes as the Cubs chase an NL Central title, trailing the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers by just one game.

Soroka, a former All-Star, has had a challenging season with a 3-8 record and a 4.87 ERA, but his experience could add depth behind starters Matthew Boyd and Shota Imanaga. The Cubs also extended president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer's contract, indicating their commitment to building a competitive team. The Nationals, on the other hand, continue to struggle, sitting at the bottom of the NL East.

As the trade deadline nears, the Chicago Cubs are taking decisive steps to bolster their pitching staff. They have acquired right-hander Michael Soroka from the Washington Nationals in exchange for two prospects: outfielder Christian Franklin and infielder Ronny Cruz. Soroka, who can serve both as a starter and in relief, posted a 4.87 ERA in 16 starts this season. His underlying stats suggest potential for improvement with a 4.12 FIP and a career-best strikeout-to-walk ratio of 3.63. The Cubs are also expected to pursue further pitching depth ahead of the deadline, especially someone who can contribute in the postseason.

The Los Angeles Angels are actively seeking to snap a decade-long postseason drought by acquiring veteran relievers Luis Garcia and Andrew Chafin from the Washington Nationals. The deal involved sending two minor leaguers, Jake Eder and Sam Brown, to the Nationals. Garcia, a seasoned right-hander, has shown promise with a 0.90 ERA in 10 appearances after a rocky stint with the Dodgers, while the left-handed Chafin boasts a 2.70 ERA over 26 games.

With the Angels bullpen currently ranking 22nd in ERA, the addition of these two experienced pitchers is crucial as they aim for a playoff spot, now only four games behind the final American League wild card. The Angels have gained momentum, winning three consecutive games, making this tradeline an important turning point in their season. Both Garcia and Chafin bring a wealth of experience, which could be pivotal for the Angels' late-season push.

The Chicago Cubs have made a significant acquisition by trading for pitcher Mike Soroka from the Washington Nationals in exchange for two prospects. Soroka, 27, has struggled with a 3-8 record and a 4.87 ERA this season, leading the league with 14 hit batsmen. A former standout with the Atlanta Braves, he has battled injuries over the past few seasons but has an impressive career ERA of 3.91. The Cubs are in urgent need of pitching depth as they navigate injuries to key players like Justin Steele, Jameson Taillon, and Javier Assad.

Soroka's expected stats show promise, notably an expected ERA of 3.32, suggesting he could perform better than his current numbers indicate. The Cubs are hoping his experience and potential will bolster their rotation and bullpen, especially with the trade deadline looming. They'll be sending Triple-A outfielder Christian Franklin and 18-year-old infielder Ronny Cruz back to the Nationals as part of the deal.