The Chicago Cubs currently sit in first place in the NL Central as we approach the non-waiver trade deadline on August 1.
Being in a position where they will likely make the playoffs, the Cubs will be looking to fill some needs come August 1. While starting pitching and the bullpen seem to be the clear choices, adding a bat is becoming a more realistic possibility.
That bat could come from within the division.
According to MLB Network’s Jon Morosi, the Cubs have been linked to Cincinnati Reds outfielder Jay Bruce:
There’s overlap in the Jay Bruce and Josh Reddick marketplaces; #Cubs, #Dodgers, #Indians are potential suitors for both. @MLBNetwork
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 22, 2016
The 29-year-old Bruce is slashing .264/.318/.528 with 19 home runs and 66 RBI’s on the year. He’s emerged as a bright spot for a Reds team that is struggling.
It seems as if the Cubs are interested in adding a left-handed bat off the bench for the stretch run. With the struggles of Miguel Montero and Chris Coghlan, finding a left-handed pinch hitter who plays outfield might be smart.
The Cubs are also reportedly interested in Oakland’s Josh Reddick:
Good news for #Athletics: Josh Reddick continues to take good swings. #Cubs are on him, also want to add pitching.
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 22, 2016
Theo Epstein has ties with Reddick in Boston and he seems to be the favorable choice for the Cubs. Reddick is slashing .295/.374/.433 with 6 home runs and 23 RBI’s in 61 games.
Reddick will likely be the cheaper option for the Cubs, as Cincinnati will certainly ask for valuable prospects as they are trying to rebuild.
The Cubs aren’t willing to part with top prospects and certainly not to anyone in the division.
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