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.

The Chicago Cubs have several relief pitchers on their target list, ahead of the MLB trade deadline. Chicago wants some bullpen help.

Here’s a look back at what happened in the Chicago area on July 26, according to the Tribune’s archives. Is an important event missing from this date? Email us. Weather records (from the National Weather Service,

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.

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.

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.