Chicago Cubs win in Jon Lester’s gem; Trade rumors circling Javier Baez

Lester tallies 14 K’s in win over Rockies; Padres interested in Baez

The Chicago Cubs Jon Lester has been a magnet for criticism, but that happens when you get upwards of around $170 million to pitch. As of late, Lester is looking like that guy the Cubs expected to see as he struck out 14–the first Cubs since Mark Prior in 2004–as they beat the Rockies 3-2 to win the series at Wrigley. Dexter Fowler stayed hot with a lead-off home run and Anthony Rizzo hit a two-run shot to help the Cubs to the victory. Hector Rondon slid back into the closer’s role, at least for one day.

Rumors continue to swirl for the Cubs, as different names keep getting tossed around. As the deadline gets closer, more of the names the Cubs were rumored to be after have come off the market. One team that still has plenty to offer are the San Diego Padres. They’ve apparently reached out to the Cubs on the availability of Javier Baez. Could they deal their once prized prospect?

With the news that Matt Holliday is once again headed to the DL, the Cardinals made a move to add a bat at the deadline, acquiring Brandon Moss from the Cleveland Indians for their top pitching prospect Rob Kaminsky. With Matt Adams out for the year and now Holliday out again, Moss’ ability to play first base as well as the outfield makes him a solid fit in St.Louis.

The Texas Rangers have silenced Cubs’ fans calling for the team to trade for Cole Hamels. The Rangers gave up a sizeable package but didn’t have to give up any of their premier prospects. That fact may leave Cubs fans wondering for some time what could have been. But with a solid free agent class of pitchers this offseason, they may not have felt the need to relinquish prospects when they can make a move this winter.

These and other stories you may have missed:

‘Cubs top Rockies behind Lester’s strong start’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Could Javier Baez be headed to the Padres?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Indians send Moss to Cardinals for top prospect‘ – Wahoo’s on First

‘Cole Hamels is officially a Ranger’ – Nolan Writin’

‘#TBT: five biggest deadline blockbusters’ – MLB.com

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