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.

Here is the perfect trade offer that the Chicago Cubs should offer the Minnesota Twins for starting pitcher Joe Ryan.

The parking lot across the street from Rate Field was filled with tailgaters a few hours before Saturday’s game between the Chicago Cubs and White Sox. Fans of both teams were seen sharing beers, brats and unknown substances like it was their last summer blowout.

The Chicago Cubs have led the National League Central division for a majority of the season. However, after posting a .500 record over their last 10 games, incl