The Chicago Cubs are actively searching for pitching help following the loss of their ace, Justin Steele, who has been ruled out for the rest of the 2025 season due to an elbow injury. With their rotation now significantly weakened early in the season, the Cubs—currently leading the NL Central with a 14-9 record—are determined to remain contenders in the World Series hunt.
One name that’s gaining traction as a trade target is Minnesota Twins right-hander Pablo López. The Twins have stumbled out of the gate with a disappointing 7-14 record, and with ownership reportedly exploring a sale, a roster shake-up to cut costs may be on the horizon. López, who owns one of the team’s largest contracts behind only Byron Buxton and Carlos Correa, could be among the first to go.
A potential trade proposal would send López to Chicago in exchange for three Cubs prospects: outfielders Kevin Alcántara (ranked No. 6 in the Cubs’ system, No. 86 overall by MLB.com), James Triantos (Cubs No. 5, MLB No. 69), and pitcher Jack Neely (Cubs No. 16). This deal would give Minnesota future talent while allowing Chicago to reinforce its rotation immediately.
Despite currently being on the 15-day injured list with a hamstring strain, López had been pitching well before the injury and has already begun a rehab assignment. He’s been a consistent performer, boasting a sub-4.00 ERA in four of the last five seasons and earning an All-Star nod in 2023.
With Steele sidelined, the Cubs are now relying on Jameson Taillon, Shota Imanaga, Matthew Boyd, and Ben Brown to carry the load. However, adding López would not only provide a boost at the top of the rotation but also solidify their postseason hopes in what is considered one of the weaker divisions in MLB.
Given their deep farm system—ranked among the best in baseball—the Cubs are in a strong position to make a deal without giving up top-tier prospects like Matt Shaw, Cade Horton, or Owen Caissie, all of whom are nearing MLB readiness in Triple-A.
While the Twins haven’t officially committed to a rebuild, signs point to a possible sell-off. The team’s sluggish start, combined with the uncertainty surrounding ownership, makes a López trade increasingly likely. With a sizable contract and a recent injury, López is a logical trade candidate for Minnesota—especially as the club looks to shed payroll and retool for the future.
As the season progresses, keep an eye on Chicago. The Cubs are motivated, well-equipped, and ready to strike early in the trade market—potentially landing López as their next rotation leader.