With the MLB season in full swing, the Chicago Cubs have been facing some challenges in their starting rotation. The losses of Shota Imanaga and Justin Steele have finally taken their effect and it’s time for the Cubs to make some moves. As they continue to fight for a spot in the playoffs, it’s crucial for the team to strengthen their starting pitching. Here are three starting pitchers that the Cubs should target to help them secure a spot in the postseason.

First on the list is Max Scherzer of the Washington Nationals. Scherzer is a proven ace with a wealth of experience and success in the league. He has won three Cy Young Awards and has been selected to seven All-Star games. Scherzer is known for his dominant fastball and slider, which have helped him rack up an impressive strikeout rate of 11.2 per nine innings. With his ability to go deep into games and shut down opposing batters, Scherzer would be a valuable addition to the Cubs’ rotation.

Another potential target for the Cubs is José Berríos of the Minnesota Twins. Berríos has been a consistent performer for the Twins, with a career ERA of 3.87 and a strikeout rate of 9.1 per nine innings. He has also shown improvement in his control, lowering his walk rate each year since his debut in 2016. Berríos has the ability to mix up his pitches and keep hitters off balance, making him a reliable starter for any team. At just 27 years old, Berríos also has the potential to continue improving and become a top-tier pitcher in the league.

Lastly, the Cubs should consider trading for Kyle Gibson of the Texas Rangers. Gibson has been having a breakout season, with a 2.87 ERA and a 1.08 WHIP in 16 starts. He has also been able to limit walks and keep the ball in the park, which has been a struggle for some of the Cubs’ current starters. Gibson’s sinker and slider have been his go-to pitches, generating a lot of ground balls and inducing weak contact. With his impressive performance this season, Gibson would provide a much-needed boost to the Cubs’ rotation.

While these three pitchers would certainly strengthen the Cubs’ starting rotation, it’s important to note that acquiring them will not be an easy task. All three are highly sought after and their respective teams may not be willing to part with them easily. However, with the Cubs’ strong farm system and depth in their roster, they have the pieces to make a trade happen.

In addition to targeting these pitchers, the Cubs should also focus on improving their bullpen. With the loss of Justin Steele, their bullpen depth has taken a hit. Adding a reliable reliever or two would not only provide insurance for their starters but also strengthen their overall pitching staff.

It’s clear that the Cubs have some work to do in order to solidify their chances of making it to the postseason. However, with the right moves, they can turn their season around and make a strong push for the playoffs. The addition of a proven ace like Max Scherzer, a consistent starter like José Berríos, or a breakout performer like Kyle Gibson would greatly improve their chances. The Cubs have the resources and the determination to make these moves happen, and it’s time for them to take action. Let’s go Cubs!