MLB Trade Deadline: Kevin Gausman fills a Cubs need, and other deals made Monday

Key Points:

• The Cubs made four trades just before the MLB Trade Deadline, aiming to strengthen their roster for the remainder of the season, with limited changes expected after rosters expand in September.
• Acquiring pitcher Kevin Gausman addresses a major need for the Cubs, providing a healthy starter for the next two months; despite a 4.38 ERA, his underlying metrics suggest consistent performance, earning the deal an A- grade due to his rental status and age.
• The Cubs received some value from the Taillon trade, which was initially expected to yield little, potentially helping offset Gausman's contract costs, while other trades involving Garrett and Long appear more future-focused, with Garrett recovering from injury and Long seeking playing time elsewhere.
• Prospect Nick Rojas remains blocked in the Cubs' system but is considered a valuable asset, while incoming players like Holmes and Taylor are expected to contribute soon, with Holmes nearing readiness after injury and Taylor serving as a competent fourth outfielder.
• Overall, the Cubs' deadline moves are viewed positively, boosting their World Series odds, with the team now better positioned for the playoff push and future seasons.