AL’s hottest team may have just ruined Cubs’ trade deadline plan

While the Chicago Cubs may have gained a trade partner with the Arizona Diamondbacks, appearing to be sellers ahead of the MLB trade deadline, the Cubs may have lost a different trade partner. The Boston Red Sox have won 10 consecutive games, and at the All-Star break, now find themselves only 3 games behind the New York Yankees for first place in the American League East. Beyond the division, the Red Sox would be one of the American League Wild-Card teams if the postseason started today.

The hot streak came at the perfect time for the Red Sox, as there were whispers the team could be sellers ahead of the deadline prior to their 10-game winning streak. Now at the center of the American League postseason discussion, it would seem that the Red Sox can rule out selling ahead of the deadline.

One of the Red Sox players most commonly linked to the Cubs was Aroldis Chapman. The Cubs haven't ruled out adding another high-leverage relief pitcher, despite Daniel Palencia's breakout, and Chapman would have checked that box.

Cubs won’t like what this AL team’s hot streak just did to the deadline

The Red Sox being buyers also should bring an end to the idea they would trade Alex Bregman. If the Cubs were looking for leverage in their pursuit of Eugenio Suarez of the Arizona Diamondbacks, Bregman being available certainly would have provided that. Even if the Red Sox don't reach an extension with Bregman before the deadline, it would make very little sense for them to turn around and trade him as long as they remain in contention.

Red Sox starting pitcher Lucas Giolito was another Boston player linked to the Cubs. With the Red Sox likely in the market for a starting pitcher, Giolito likely will remain in Boston as they look to contend.

Even with the Red Sox potentially buying, the Cubs still might be able to pry Rob Refsnyder away from their crowded outfield picture. Jordan Wicks or Ben Brown, two Major League arms, could be a part of such a deal, addressing a current need for the Red Sox at the Major League level.

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