The Chicago Cubs currently hold a 39-36 record following a series-clinching victory at Wrigley Field. Over the last 24 hours, the team secured an 8-6 win against the Colorado Rockies. They took two of three games in the set.
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MLB Game Recap
Chicago utilized a massive seven-run second inning to defeat Colorado 8-6, marking their first home series win since May 6. Javier Assad earned his fifth win, pitching 5.2 innings and allowing two runs, while Dansby Swanson snapped a month-long drought with a pivotal two-run home run. The bullpen faced a late surge from the Rockies. This included three home runs in the final two frames. Jacob Webb eventually secured his second save.
Standout Performer
Pete Crow-Armstrong continued his dominant stretch, finishing 1-for-4 with a solo home run, a walk, and a run scored. This marked the rookie’s third consecutive game with a homer. It was his fourth in the last five games. This achievement raised his season total to 15. Crow-Armstrong’s elite performance extended his on-base streak to 21 games, and his 4.1 fWAR now trails only Shohei Ohtani and Bobby Witt Jr. for the best in MLB.
Key News & Notes
The roster underwent several changes. Daniel Palencia was placed on the 15-day IL with right elbow inflammation. This prompted the recall of Gavin Hollowell from Triple-A. Edward Cabrera exited Tuesday’s start with a hand cramp. He is considered day-to-day. On Wednesday, he reportedly felt improved and hopes to make his next start. Manager Craig Counsell shared good news regarding Matthew Boyd. Boyd is set for a rehab assignment this Saturday. Finally, the Cubs outrighted Doug Nikhazy to Iowa following his recent designation for assignment.
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Farm Report
- AAA Iowa Cubs: Ben Cowles 2-3, HR, 4 RBI, BB Won 6-5 (10 inn) vs. Indians Cowles provided the game’s biggest highlight with a fourth-inning grand slam in the extra-inning victory.
- AA Knoxville Smokies: Jefferson Rojas 1-4, 3B, RBI Lost 5-2 vs. Lookouts Rojas hit a late RBI triple. This occurred in a series-opening loss. The game saw manager Lance Rymel ejected in the ninth.
- High A South Bend Cubs: The game was postponed
- Low-A Myrtle Beach Pelicans: Alexey Lumpuy 1-2, 3 BB, 1 RBI, 2 R, 3 SB Won 8-6 vs. Shorebirds Lumpuy displayed elite discipline and speed, stealing three bases and reaching safely four times to spark the offense.
- ACL Cubs: Jose Vivas 2-4, 3 RBI Lost 6-5 vs. ACL Angels Vivas drove in three runs and recorded two hits in a narrow loss that featured two ejections.
Deep Dive: Cubs Trade Prediction Lands Red Sox’ $75 Million All-Star Starter for Matt Shaw
Rumors are intensifying. A potential blockbuster trade may send Cubs utilityman Matt Shaw to the Boston Red Sox. This trade would be in exchange for All-Star starter Sonny Gray. Reports indicate Chicago is willing to trade the 24-year-old infielder. They want to acquire the front-line starter they desperately need for a serious playoff push. Gray, currently under a $75 million contract, has been stellar this season with a 3.03 ERA over 62+ innings.
The logic behind moving Shaw focuses on a crowded Chicago infield. Alex Bregman, Dansby Swanson, and Nico Hoerner are all locked into long-term deals. This situation leaves Shaw without a clear full-time role. Shaw has shown significant promise. This includes a two-run triple in Wednesday’s win. Industry experts believe he would be the primary chip in a package. This package could also include outfielder Kevin Alcantara. The Cubs’ rotation struggles with inconsistent performances. They also face multiple injuries. Jed Hoyer is reportedly looking to make a “splash” before the August 3 trade deadline. Gray’s veteran presence would provide immediate stability to a staff that has leaned heavily on youngsters and recent call-ups.
Gray’s contract has a ten-million-dollar mutual option for 2027. With the pending lockout for 2027 looming, trading away assets for a rental is extremely risky. Does Jed think this team is one piece away from the World Series? I am not a fan of this deal, given the current state of the pitching staff. If we were a game behind Milwaukee or first in the Central, then perhaps, but right now, any move should be for controllable arms if we are giving up young assets, in my opinion
Looking Ahead
The Cubs have a scheduled off-day on Thursday. They will return to Wrigley Field to host the Toronto Blue Jays for a three-game series. The series begins Friday afternoon. Chicago has not yet announced a starting pitcher for the series opener.
The Cubs’ offense is finally flashing its high-scoring potential. However, the bullpen struggles to maintain comfortable leads. This remains a major concern for a team with playoff aspirations.
