MILWAUKEE – The Cubs have probably already made their biggest move before the July 31 deadline – and maybe the biggest deal from this entire trading cycle. Acquiring Jose Quintana added a stunning new dimension to the Cubs-Sox rivalry, snapped the defending champs to attention and opened up future possibilities for Theo Epstein’s front office.
But within the final 72 hours before the non-waiver deadline, it’s obvious that Epstein’s creativity and competitive streak won’t allow him to stop at Quintana. The Cubs have earned it, winning 11 of their first 13 games since the All-Star break and knocking the Milwaukee Brewers out of first place in the National League Central.