The Chicago Cubs took a significant hit to their starting rotation with Justin Steele undergoing season-ending surgery. Despite that setback, the Cubs are off to a strong 19–13 start. With star outfielder Kyle Tucker potentially departing in free agency after this season, Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly suggested that the Cubs could make a major push to win now — by trading for Miami Marlins ace.
Kelly explained, “While the Yankees, Padres, and Mets all need top-tier pitching, the Cubs have the most urgency. Losing Steele for the year and possibly only having one season left with Tucker makes them likely to be aggressive. Jed Hoyer, the team’s president of baseball operations, might have to give up more than he’s comfortable with, but he’d be landing a durable pitcher who could anchor the rotation for multiple playoff runs.”
Top star signed a five-year, \$56 million deal with Miami in 2021 and went on to win the NL Cy Young Award in 2022, leading the league in innings pitched and complete games. However, he regressed in 2023 and missed all of last season following Tommy John surgery. His return in 2025 has been rocky, posting an 8.31 ERA over six starts so far.
Despite the rough start, Alcántara’s past performance makes him an intriguing trade target. Chicago has seven prospects in MLB Pipeline’s Top 100, and while third baseman Matt Shaw likely won’t be moved, pitching prospect Cade Horton, outfielder Owen Caissie, or catcher Moisés Ballesteros could be in play as part of a potential trade package.
The Cubs would likely need to outbid several other contenders to acquire Alcántara — but if he rounds back into form, he could be the difference-maker they need.