The Chicago Cubs have needed to add a pitcher to their roster for the last few months. They could pull off a deadline blockbuster for an ace.

The MLB trade deadline is just a few days away, and the Chicago Cubs are reportedly pursuing starting pitching help.

Javier Assad hasn’t pitched for the Chicago Cubs this season because of a left oblique strain. He is nearing a return and will make rehab start Wednesday for Triple-A Iowa.

Veteran right-hander Javier Assad, 27, is slated to make a rehabilitation start for Triple-A Iowa on Wednesday, as he continues his lengthy journey back to the Chicago Cubs after suffering a left oblique injury during spring training in Arizona.

Assad and Taillon, who is scheduled to throw live batting practice in Milwaukee this week before starting his minor-league rehab assignment, are on track to return sometime around mid-August. And the Cubs are exploring trade options to add outside pitching before the deadline Thursday.

This round of the City Series arrives as the July 31 trade deadline nears. The Cubs are in a position to buy while the White Sox will be looking to sell.

Shota Imanaga against the White Sox tonight: 3.0 IP | 12 H | 7 ER | 2 K pic.twitter.com/ew6ewAJssm

The Milwaukee Brewers try to avoid a shocking sweep by the Miami Marlins at American Family Field on July 27. Follow along for live updates as Brewers right-hander Brandon Woodruff (3-3, 3.23) goes up against Eury Perez (3-3, 3.23) of the Marlins. TV channel: FanDuel Sports Wisconsin.