Maybe this can be the year for the Milwaukee Brewers.

Although the Brewers have reached the postseason in seven of the last eight years, they have not been to the World Series since 1982. They have come close, losing in the NLCS twice, but have been unable to get over the hump.

They have a chance this year. Pitchers Jacob Misiorowski and Kyle Harrison give the Brewers a formidable duo atop the rotation. The lineup has been solid as a whole. And the Brewers have a deep enough farm system where they should be able fill any holes.

Let's take a look at three areas the Brewers could target ahead of the Aug. 3 trade deadline.

Milwaukee Brewers' biggest needs at the trade deadline

1. Depth in the bullpen

The Brewers have a stellar trio in the back of the bullpen. Setup man Aaron Ashby has garnered attention as he continues to lead the majors in wins but has been a solid option overall. Co-closers Abner Uribe and Trevor Megill have impressed, giving the Brewers a solid trio to close out the final three innings.

The problem is getting there. While the bullpen has been solid overall, the Brewers could stand to add more depth. Injuries have already taken a toll on their relief corps over the course of the season, testing their depth. Another veteran reliever or two, especially a lefty, could make a difference down the stretch.

2. Find another powerful bat at third

The Brewers have gotten virtually nothing offensively from the left side of their infield. Primary third baseman Luis Rengifo posted a .205/.280/.254 batting line in 209 plate appearances before being released. Joey Ortiz has not been much better but offers defensive versatility. Shortstop Cooper Pratt signed an eight-year extension and will be given every opportunity to prove himself.

This leaves third base as the most likely path for another power bat. Several third basemen could become available in the coming weeks, potentially giving the Brewers an option to improve the lineup. 

3. Add more rotation depth

Although Misiorowski and Harrison have impressed atop the Brewers rotation, their depth is questionable at best. Brandon Woodruff is back on the injured list with right shoulder inflammation, joining starters Logan Henderson and Coleman Crow. Brandon Sproat has struggled in his first season in Milwaukee. The Brewers need more than their top duo to advance deep into the postseason.

At the same time, the Brewers are in an almost enviable spot. They can focus on adding middle-of-the-rotation arms while other teams fight over the likes of Tarik Skubal. The Brewers may be able to strike quickly, bolstering their chances of a first-round bye as they look to reach the World Series for the second time in franchise history.