Chicago Cubs: Five predictions for the second half

The Cubs will make a trade, but not for a Yankee

First off, the New York Yankees can’t seem to agree on if they’re a buyer or a seller (Spoiler: they should sell). But these hopes of acquiring Aroldis Chapman, Dellin Betances or Andrew Miller aren’t likely to come to fruition. And while the Cubs have the depth to make the deal, the Yankees can set the price at whatever they choose as they aren’t really being forced to deal any of the three.

Yes, the Cubs are loaded with positional talent, and not all the prospects coming through the system will make it to Chicago to play with the Cubs. So should the Cubs simply deal from the top to get one or two of the Yankees relievers? In my opinion, no. My argument? The Shelby Miller trade is a good place to start. The Diamondbacks gave up an absolute ransom for him–including their top pick from last season, Dansby Swanson. Now Miller is headed to Triple-A and the D-backs are in last place in the NL West.

I do believe the Cubs will make a deal that will be more newsworthy than last year, but not the blockbuster that many are hoping for. I’d keep an eye on Rich Hill and Josh Reddick of the A’s, and throw the possibility of Carlos Gonzalez in there. Slim chance but the Cubs could look to get a clutch bat like Car-Go if the opportunity arises.

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