Chicago Cubs Rumors: Milwaukee could go big at the trade deadline

Despite many Chicago Cubs fans’ wishing and hoping, the Milwaukee Brewers remain in first place. A big move at the deadline could keep things that way.

It is 50-50 proposition as to whether or not the Chicago Cubs will do something before the July 31st trade deadline. In the eyes of many, the Cubs don’t need to do anything. Although, in my opinion adding another reliever to the worn out bullpen couldn’t hurt.

But, the team’s neighbor to the north, the Milwaukee Brewers seem very likely to do so. The Brewers rotation has been solid for the most part in 2018. They have been led by Chase Anderson and Brent Suter. However, both of those arms have yet to prove that they’ll be able to keep up their pace into the second half. And, don’t forget, Jimmy Nelson continues to recover from shoulder surgery.

A name for baseball fans to keep an eye out for is a name that should sound familiar to Brewers fans. That name? Right-handed veteran Marco Estrada, who’s currently on a one-year deal with the Toronto Blue Jays.

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Estrada would be a solid addition to their rotation, but more importantly, his trade price will not be as high to acquire him as it would be for another highly prized trade target.

Why not go ‘all-in’ at the deadline?

The Brewers could try and piece together a very tempting package of players to trade for a pitcher like Dylan Bundy from the Orioles or other young, controllable arms. Another team to keep an eye on? The New York Mets, who are reportedly shopping several of their big arms, including Jacob DeGrom.

If the Brewers were to package a big package for a primetime player, it would most likely be centered around shortstop Orlando Arica and/or outfielder Keon Broxton.

Maybe a bat

The Brewers are somewhat set when it comes to their lineup. Their only shaky spot might behind the plate. But they aren’t likely to overpay to try and acquire a backstop.

One name that keeps popping up? Jonathan Lucroy, the former Brewer. The 32-year-old backstop isn’t putting up the offensive numbers he once did, but he’s far from a liability with the bat.

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The Brewers’ need to make a move is far from anything new. Last season, many believed Milwaukee needed a big trade to knock the Cubs off the top of the Central. For whatever reason, they have been reluctant to make said move.

So, once again, it will be a case of “wait-and-see” as the deadline approaches.