Trade Deadline Preview: Chicago Cubs

Jun 7, 2014; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Kevin Gausman (39) throws in the first inning against the Oakland Athletics at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports

Three Pieces the Cubs May Look to Acquire

1. SP Kevin Gausman-Baltimore Orioles

This 23 year old right hander is a high ceiling prospect, getting his 2nd go at the big leagues in Baltimore. Gausman currently holds a 3.86 ERA through five starts, with a 1.357 WHIP. While those numbers are good, but not extremely flattering, the Cubs have previously shown with Jake Arrieta and Pedro Strop that they can help turn around the misfortunes with stronger pitching development in Chicago. Gausman would be a primary piece in a trade involving the Orioles and the Cubs, shall one happen.

2. C Gary Sanchez-New York Yankees

The top prospect in the Yankees system, shall the Cubs engage in trade talks involving Jeff Samardzija, the Yankees may be pushed to move their organizational number one prospect. The 21 year old catcher currently plays at AA Trenton, where he holds a .265 batting average with 9 HR and 40 RBI. In order to acquire Sanchez, the Cubs may need to throw in a few of their prospects as well, but if the opportunity arises, it is one the Cubs should definitely take.

3. SP Marcus Stroman-Toronto Blue Jays

The 2nd best prospect in a pitching heavy Blue Jays farm, the Cubs may very well see the 23 year old righty come into play in a trade, especially if Jason Hammel is the trade chip at stake. The Cubs would love to add another high ceiling pitcher into the mix, and even if his future as a front of the rotation starter is not fulfilled in Chicago, pitching development, which has been done very well under Chris Bosio, can lead Stroman to become an important, long term piece for the Cubs.