Cubs and Mets Face Bullpen Challenges

The MLB trade deadline is approaching with 22 teams still in playoff contention, leaving only a few sellers like the Angels, Athletics, Marlins, Rockies, and White Sox. The New York Mets have placed reliever Drew Smith on the 15-day injured list due to a right elbow sprain, further depleting their bullpen already missing closer Edwin Díaz. Similarly, the Chicago Cubs' bullpen struggles continued with key reliever Yency Almonte still sidelined and another late-game collapse leading to a 5-4 loss against the San Francisco Giants. These bullpen issues highlight the challenges teams face as they navigate injuries and seek trade opportunities to bolster their rosters for a playoff push.