Cubs GM says two important reinforcements are arriving in August

The Chicago Cubs are busy looking at trade deadline reinforcements, but it's clear Jed Hoyer and Carter Hawkins are also preparing to get a few players back not long after they're done adding via trade. Both catcher Miguel Amaya and swing man Javier Assad are expected to rejoin the big league club in August, providing reinforcements just when the team is trying to streak into the playoffs.

Speaking to 670 The Score, Hawkins addressed when he expects the injured Cubs to return and was optimistic on both. However, if there is a bit of a cloud over both Amaya and Assad, it's that Hawkins didn't say whether they would be back in early, mid, or late August.

Chicago Cubs injury updates: Miguel Amaya and Javier Assad tracking for August returns

"Yeah, I mean, I think we're looking at August for both of those guys, you know, which would be really, really nice to have them back," the Chicago Cubs' GM said during his appearance.

Hawkins added that while he's excited about getting both buys back, he also knows the team has the luxury of being patient because of how the club has dealt with their absences.

"Our catching group has done great as Miggy's been out. You know, obviously, Reece McGuire's been outstanding in terms of his ability to be our second catcher, and Carson's had just a heck of a year."

Hawkins also made it clear he knows that the Chicago Cubs pitching staff would love to get Assad back, either as a starter or, should there be enough deadline additions, back to the bullpen. He did add that he's hoping both will enter rehab assignments relatively soon and then be back in Wrigley sometime in August.

Beyond Carter's comments, Marquee shared a few injury updates on guys dealing with shorter-term injuries as well.

Porter Hodge, who was placed on the IL earlier this month with a shoulder injury, is set to begin throwing bullpens. If all goes well, he could begin a rehab assignment soon, though he may stick in Triple-A Iowa as he figures out some mechanical changes.

Meanwhile, Jameson Taillon (calf) will try throwing off the mound before the end of July, giving him a possible timetable of September for his return.