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MLB Trade Rumors: 5 early trade candidates for Cubs

By Dan Schmelzer

Apr 27, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Sonny Gray (54) pitches in the first inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 27, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Sonny Gray (54) pitches in the first inning against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aroldis Chapman
Feb 18, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher Aroldis Chapman (54) works out as the pitchers and catchers arrive for spring training at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

RP. New York Yankees. Aroldis Chapman. 1. player. 43.

As mentioned earlier, the biggest hole on the Cubs’ roster is a left-handed relief pitcher. They could look to fill that with a minor acquisition like Buchter, or the Cubs can push all-in. If they swing for the fences, Aroldis Chapman is a guy who some could easily see the Cubs coveting.

Chapman returns from suspension on Monday, and will make his debut with the New York Yankees soon. With a 100+ MPH fastball, Chapman is one of the best relief pitchers in the game. He can truly be dominant at any time.

The Yankees just acquired Chapman this past off season, but considering he is set to become a free agent in 2017, they could look to flip him at the deadline. The Yankees’ 2016 season did not start out as planned. as they currently sit with an 11-18 record and in last place in the AL East. If they do not turn it around quickly, Chapman could be aggressively shopped soon.

There have already been plenty of whispers about the Yankees looking to move Chapman.

It wouldn’t be cheap, but left-handed relief pitching is the Cubs’ biggest need on the roster and Chapman is far and away the best in the game. This team is incredibly talented and are ready to make a legitimate World Series run. Sometimes you have to give up future value to win it all in the present. Making a huge play for Chapman would be a fantastic power move by the Cubs.

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