Chicago Cubs: Evaluating the Chris Archer-Eloy Jimenez rumors

One of the Chicago Cubs’ former pitching prospects, Chris Archer, could very well be a long-term answer to the team’s starting pitching woes.

Coming off a season in which the starting rotation pitched at historically well levels en route to a championship, things looked promising. But, approaching the trade deadline, the Chicago Cubs desperately need help to shore up the staff.

Jake Arrieta and John Lackey seem to be as good as gone come season’s end. In the meantime, 80 percent of the Cubs’ starting rotation has underperformed. So, whether you look at the short or long-term, this team must make an impact move in the next five weeks.

Last winter, the crosstown White Sox reportedly shopped Jose Quintana, but fell short of making a deal. Of course, the club essentially ruled out trading with the Cubs, but their southpaw represents what the team lacks: a controllable, quality young arm.

On Monday, Jeff Passan linked the Cubs to Joe Maddon‘s former club, the Tampa Bay Rays in a head-turning rumor.

"#Cubs have had talks w/ Rays in past regarding Chris Archer. He’s a logical fit, but Cubs would have to part w/ Eloy Jimenez."

So just how bad do you want to fix the starting rotation? Enough to trade another MLB.com Top 10 prospect? Because that’s what it will take.