Chicago Cubs Eye Two Marlins Starting Pitchers in Potential Blockbuster Trade
Should the Chicago Cubs target two starting pitchers from the Miami Marlins?
The Cubs have had an impressive first half of the season, positioning themselves as serious contenders for the World Series. Initially, they were expected to be a better team after trades with the Houston Astros that brought in Kyle Tucker and Ryan Pressly. However, Chicago has exceeded expectations, becoming one of the best teams in the National League, with high aspirations for the rest of the season.
While Tucker has been solid, the breakout performance of Pete Crow-Armstrong and the overall depth of the Cubs’ offense has been key to their success.
Related: Cubs Rank Among MLB’s Best at the Season’s Midpoint
Despite having a high-powered offense, the Cubs’ pitching staff — both the rotation and bullpen — could use some reinforcement. With the trade deadline fast approaching, Chicago is likely to be aggressive in adding pitching talent.
Kerry Miller of Bleacher Report recently suggested a blockbuster trade that would send Marlins pitchers Sandy Alcantara and Edward Cabrera to the Cubs in exchange for prospects Kevin Alcantara, Jefferson Rojas, Jaxon Wiggins, Ryan Gallagher, and Yahil Melendez.
Miller noted, “A rotation with Imanaga, Alcantara, and ideally a healthy Boyd or Cabrera, combined with this lineup, would give them more than a fighting chance in October.”
While sending five prospects might seem like a steep price, Chicago has a deep farm system and could afford to pursue top-tier talent aggressively this summer.
The injury to Justin Steele, who is out for the rest of the year, has altered the Cubs’ plans. Steele was one of their best pitchers, and the team has struggled to replace his production internally. As a result, adding one or two starting pitchers has become a necessity.
Acquiring Alcantara and Cabrera would certainly help address that need. Alcantara, a former NL Cy Young winner, is showing signs of returning to form after Tommy John surgery, while Cabrera has proven himself as a capable Major League pitcher.
With Alcantara’s recent strong performances, he could be an ideal addition to the Cubs’ rotation. Chicago needs a front-line starter for the postseason to pair with Shota Imanaga, and Alcantara fits that need.
Although the trade would come at a high cost, Chicago’s strong farm system gives them the resources to pull off this major deal.
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