Since June 2, the Chicago Cubs played 13 games in four cities. Though they went only 7-6, they expanded their lead in the NL Central.

With a focus on strengthening their starting rotation and bullpen, the Chicago Cubs are preparing for the MLB trade deadline. That need is unsurprising, as injuries have depleted the starting rotation that is without Justin Steele due to season-ending surgery on his left elbow.

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The Chicago Cubs go into MLB games today with one of the best records in baseball, outperforming expectations even amid

The Pittsburgh Pirates (29-42) visit the Chicago Cubs (42-28) Saturday for the third game of their 4-game series. First pitch from Wrigley Field is at 2:20 p.m. ET. Let's analyze BetMGM Sportsbook's MLB odds around the Pirates vs. Cubs odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

The Chicago Cubs are on top of the NL Central with a depleted rotation. The quiet consistency of Matthew Boyd is a major reason for their success. Boyd has pitched at least six innings and allowed three earned runs or fewer in 10 of his 14 starts with his new team.

The Chicago Cubs need starting pitching help and not just from the return of injured left-hander Shota Imanaga.

With team president Jed Hoyer making it known the Chicago Cubs will be focused on pitching at the trade deadline, here are three realistic targets for Chicago.

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