The Chicago Cubs’ starting rotation took a significant hit when Justin Steele required surgery. Despite that, the team has started strong with a 19-13 record, though they may lose Kyle Tucker after this season. According to Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly, the Cubs might take an aggressive approach and trade for Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcántara in hopes of maximizing their window with Tucker.
Kelly noted that while teams like the Yankees, Padres, and Mets are also in need of top-tier pitching, the Cubs are particularly driven to make a bold move. With Steele out for the season and Tucker possibly departing in free agency after 2025, Cubs president Jed Hoyer might need to part with top prospects to acquire Alcántara—a durable starter under contract through 2026 who could anchor the rotation for multiple postseason runs.
Alcántara signed a five-year, $56 million contract in 2021 and claimed the NL Cy Young Award in 2022, leading the league in innings pitched and complete games. However, he struggled in 2023 and missed last season entirely. This year, he has posted a rough 8.31 ERA over six starts, not yet resembling the dominant pitcher fans remember.
Still, considering his recent Tommy John surgery, there’s optimism he’ll rebound once fully healthy. The Cubs, who have seven prospects in MLB Pipeline’s Top 100, might consider trading players like Cade Horton, Owen Caissie, or Moisés Ballesteros—though Matt Shaw is likely untouchable. Even with Alcántara’s recent setbacks, Chicago may need to outbid other contenders to secure him.
