3 Trade Targets Cubs Must Avoid This Summer

Summer has arrived, and with it comes the inevitable trade rumors leading up to the July 31 trade deadline. One team that has been as active as they come in July in recent years is the NL Central-leading Chicago Cubs, who figure to be looking at the trade market again this summer.

The Cubs look like they will be in a heated race with last year's division champion Brewers, and they can use all the ammunition they can get for the stretch run. With that being said, here are three trade targets the Cubs should stay away from in 2019.

1. Madison Bumgarner

The Giants figure to be selling at the deadline, and Madison Bumgarner could be on the trade block in the last year of his contract. Despite the fact that he'll be available for money alone after his deal expires, the Giants will likely command a good haul for the 29 year-old four-time All-Star and postseason horse. However, Bumgarner is coming off of two injury-riddled seasons, and his 4.01 ERA does not inspire much confidence in his recovery, so his cost will be too high for what could be just a rental.

2. Yasiel Puig

Puig has been a hot name at the deadline in recent years, and the Reds could look to move him when July rolls around. Chicago could be looking to add some outfield depth, but they should look the other way from the erratic Puig, who is batting .218 for the Reds in a contract year.

3. Corey Kluber

It's unclear whether the second-place Indians will be buying or selling at the deadline, but either way, they could be looking to move the 33-year-old Kluber, provided he returns in time. Like Bumgarner, the two-time Cy Young award winner has been battling concerning injuries of late. That, combined with his terrible performance when healthy in the early portion of this season, means we're still unsure if he can match his dominance of seasons past