MLB Trade Rumor: Yankees battle rival Red Sox for Cubs star pitcher? New York team's trade deadline heats up amidst slump

Both the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox are in need of pitching reinforcements. The historical rivals are eyeing Cubs starter Jameson Taillon who can be a strong addition to their respective rotations.

The Chicago Cubs find themselves in a peculiar position as they are unsure whether they will be sellers or buyers at the trade deadline. They would need to make a move but also keep their core of Ian Happ, Dansby Swanson, Justin Steele, and Nico Hoerner intact.

However, as they remain undecided, the NL Central team is reportedly considering a trade that involves Jameson Taillon. He is currently in his second season in Chicago, on a contract that runs through 2026.

Taillon has a 7-4 record this season with a 3.14 ERA in 16 starts. The Cubs can use him smartly in the trade table which might involve sending him elsewhere but also securing enough backup to make it seem they want to remain in contention.

As reported by Bob Nightengale, the Yankees seem to be a good fit for Taillon. New York has had a big slump as they have won just 9 games since reaching the 50-win mark and now own a 59-41 record. A big reason for this is their starters are underperforming, thus, the team is losing momentum mid-season.

But they will face tough competition from the Red Sox who find themselves without the services of Lucas Giolito and Garrett Whitlock for the rest of the campaign.

How can Cubs get the best return out of Jameson Taillon trade?

If the Cubs indeed trade Taillon, that will likely open up the number three position in their rotation behind Shota Imanaga and Justin Steele. With Jordan Wicks' return expected to be in August, and Hayden Wesneski placed on the injured list, Chicago will look for a prospect package that can immediately tackle MLB batters.

This points towards an organization that has a strong frame system, like the Baltimore Orioles, but if the Yankees or Red Sox can come up with an intriguing offer, it could get the Cubs interested.