M ILWAUKEE -- In the midst of a heavyweight battle for first place in the National League Central, the Chicago Cubs are still scouring the landscape for help before Thursday's MLB trade deadline. On their wish list: two starters, a reliever, a potential upgrade at third base and perhaps a backup center fielder.

The Miami Marlins and Chicago Cubs are engaged in talks to swing a blockbuster deal before the MLB trade deadline.

With the trade deadline looming, the Chicago Cubs have extended president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer amid one of the team's best seasons.