July 31st is the trade deadline and it’s quickly approaching. It was more than known that the Cubs were going to add an extra arm to the pitching staff, but the recent offensive struggles are a cause for concern.

The 50-year streak of avoiding no-hits the Cubs had is now over thanks to Cole Hamels, in what could have been his last appearance for the Philadelphia Phillies. You would have expected the Cubs to avenge their first loss against the Phillies the day before that, but they didn’t. They aren’t playing the Phillies of the late 2000’s and early 2010’s, these are the 2015 Phillies, the worst team in the league. Yes, it was only one game but adding an extra bat or two could help them in the long run for the playoffs.

The trade rumors involving the Cubs have been centered around pitching, but that wouldn’t solve their problem of failing to drive in runs. The Cubs will most likely face better pitchers in playoffs who will know how to pitch to them. They need to turn their attention to acquiring a solid bat to their lineup at the trade deadline. It won’t just help them get more wins during the regular season, but it will make them a more dangerous team come playoff time. Adding a pitcher might be helpful, but another hitter could make a huge difference for the team. Starlin Castro could be on the chopping block regardless as he hasn’t been performing well.

I am also leery about sacrificing too much of the young nucleus of this team that it took them so long to build. Mainly, because young talent is also controllable talent both physically and financially.And the hope is they will be helpful for years to come. With all of the rumors focused on pitching, it’ll be interesting to see the moves they make before the deadline.

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