The Chicago Cubs’ pitching rotation took a major hit with Justin Steele sidelined after undergoing elbow surgery. Despite the setback, the Cubs have started strong with a 19–13 record. With star outfielder Kyle Tucker potentially leaving after the season, Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly predicts the team may go all-in for a title run—possibly by trading for Sandy Alcántara of the Miami Marlins.
Kelly notes that while other contenders like the Yankees, Padres, and Mets could also pursue top-tier pitchers, the Cubs have the most urgency. Not only are they without Steele for the year, but they also risk losing Tucker in free agency, making 2025 potentially their last shot with him on the roster. Acquiring Alcántara could give them a reliable postseason starter for multiple years, though it would likely cost them top prospects.
Alcántara, who signed a five-year, $56 million deal in 2021, was the NL Cy Young winner in 2022, leading the league in innings pitched and complete games. However, he struggled in 2023 and missed all of last season due to injury. This year, he’s had a rough start with an 8.31 ERA through six games, but that may be due to lingering effects from Tommy John surgery. Once fully recovered, his elite form could return.
Chicago has a deep farm system with seven players in MLB Pipeline’s Top 100. While third baseman Matt Shaw is likely off-limits, names like Cade Horton, Owen Caissie, and Moisés Ballesteros could be part of a potential trade package for Alcántara.
Even with his current struggles, Alcántara’s track record makes him a valuable target. If the Cubs want to maximize their championship window, they may need to outbid other contenders to secure his services.