The Chicago Cubs are actively seeking to bolster their pitching rotation as the MLB trade deadline approaches, especially in light of recent injuries to Justin Steele, Javier Assad, and Jameson Taillon. ESPN's Jeff Passan has identified Miami Marlins' Sandy Alcantara as an ideal target for the Cubs. Although Alcantara is a former Cy Young Award winner, his current performance has been troubling, with an ERA above 7.22 this season.

Despite his struggles and a hefty contract of $38.3 million over the next two years, Passan argues the Cubs should make a move for him due to their strong offense and solid bullpen. The Cubs have the chance to capitalize on the current season, and acquiring Alcantara could pay off as he might thrive in a new environment. With Kyle Tucker's deal expiring, the Cubs face a critical moment, suggesting that investing in a playoff-caliber starter is a wise strategy.

Garrett Mitchell's career with the Milwaukee Brewers has been marked by tremendous promise but equally significant setbacks. After bursting onto the scene in 2022, his trajectory has been marred by serious injuries, including a shoulder surgery in 2023 that sidelined him for nearly an entire season. The latest setback—a re-injured shoulder during a rehab assignment—could keep him out for another 8-10 weeks, as confirmed by Dr. William Raasch.

The implications for the Brewers are significant, as manager Pat Murphy expressed concern over the team's future without Mitchell's explosive potential. With a career slash line of .254/.333/.433 and 113 OPS+, he boasts undeniable talent. However, with only 141 games played across four seasons, the Brewers must reassess their reliance on him as they navigate a challenging season.

After dealing with injuries to two of their top defensive outfielders for much of the season, the Milwaukee Brewers are finally seeing progress. Blake Perkins, who fractured his tibia during spring training, and Garrett Mitchell, sidelined with an oblique strain since late April, have begun their rehab assignments with the ACL Brewers. Manager Pat Murphy noted that Mitchell is slightly ahead in his recovery and could join Triple-A Nashville by the end of June, while Perkins may require the full 20-day rehab window.

Both players are vital to the Brewers' defense and their return is expected to significantly enhance the team's lineup. Mitchell, who had previously shown promise during spring training, might make a quicker comeback than Perkins, providing much-needed depth to the roster. As they return to action, both players will need time to regain their form after lengthy absences.

Brandon Woodruff's comeback from injury has hit another snag after suffering a bruised elbow during a rehab outing for Triple-A Nashville. The Milwaukee Brewers right-hander was set to make his first major league appearance since September 2023 when he was struck by a line drive. Despite the setback, Woodruff remains optimistic, recognizing the situation could have been worse. Manager Pat Murphy mentioned that once the swelling subsides, Woodruff may resume throwing, with a potential return to the mound still uncertain.

Woodruff's injury history includes missing the entire 2024 season due to shoulder surgery. He had previously dealt with ankle tendinitis earlier this season and had been building up to a return. Murphy noted that despite Woodruff's current struggles, including a slight drop in fastball velocity, he expects the adrenaline of a major league game will elevate his performance upon his return. Fellow teammates Garrett Mitchell and Blake Perkins are also working towards their returns from injuries, adding to the Brewers' hope for reinforcements as they approach the All-Star break.

The Milwaukee Brewers have placed center fielder Garrett Mitchell on the 10-day injured list due to a left oblique strain, diagnosed after an MRI. Mitchell sustained the injury during a game against the St. Louis Cardinals, departing after the fourth inning. Daz Cameron, who has been performing exceptionally well in Triple-A, has been called up to fill the void left by Mitchell. Cameron boasts a .372 batting average with five home runs and 16 RBIs in just 10 games with Nashville. The Brewers have also transferred Blake Perkins to the 60-day injured list due to a right shin injury.