Chicago Cubs Rumors: Possible pitching targets ahead of waiver deadline

Chicago Cubs: Could the Cubs get another arm from the South Side?

Chicago White Sox right-hander James Shields‘ name was tossed around as a possible trade candidate prior to the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline. While he was not traded back in July, Shields could still be a trade candidate between now and August 31.

With the White Sox rebuilding and looking toward a younger future, there probably is not much of a future between them and Shields. The righty is 36 years old and has a team option for the 2019 season.

Shields has had a decent season, going 5-14 with a 4.39 ERA in 2018. After a rough July, he has shown a lot of improvement in August, going 1-1 with a 3.15 ERA in the month.

Of course, Shields would be more expensive than some other options. He is making $21 million this season. However, the cost might be worth it if Shields can put up some quality starts in place of Chatwood while Montgomery is out. Once Montgomery returns, Shields could remain in the rotation so that Montgomery could be a valuable lefty out of the bullpen.