The Cubs’ biggest need, with about a week before the July 31 deadline, is starting pitching. Lugo, who held the Cubs to four hits and two runs in six innings, will be highly sought after by contending teams if the Royals make him available. But their trade-deadline direction is unclear.

With now just over a week to go ahead of the MLB trade deadline, real reports of discussions between teams are starting to surface rather than just rumors or id

Cubs Reportedly Discussing Trade With Royals to Bolster Rotation originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Chicago Cubs are no longer sitting comfortably atop the National League Central. After Chicago held the lead since April 4, an 11-game winning streak by the Milwaukee Brewers has placed the two teams in a tie for first place.