MLB’s official Opening Day is set for Thursday, with 28 of the 30 teams in action. While only two games have impacted the 2025 standings so far (Tokyo Series), it’s never too early for bold predictions about the upcoming season. MLB.com made some predictions this week, including a hypothetical trade that could turn the Chicago Cubs into a serious postseason contender. One such move involves the Cubs acquiring Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara, the 2022 Cy Young winner, in a mid-season trade. Alcantara, who signed a five-year, $56 million extension before his career-best season, could be the key to the Cubs’ success. MLB.com’s Anthony Castrovince explained that the Cubs, who need to boost their pitching staff and have the financial resources and prospects to make a trade, could be in the market for Alcantara.
Currently, the Cubs’ projected rotation includes left-handed ace Shota Imanaga, followed by right-hander Jameson Taillon, lefty Justin Steele, lefty Matthew Boyd, and righty Ben Brown. However, acquiring Alcantara could significantly strengthen their pitching staff. Castrovince pointed out that the Cubs have six players on MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 prospects list, though rookie third baseman Matt Shaw is untouchable. The Cubs are in a position to make a big move, especially with the possibility of Kyle Tucker becoming a free agent soon. They should prioritize returning to the postseason this year, aiming for their first full-season playoff appearance since 2018.
Among the Cubs’ top prospects, five are at the Triple-A level and between 21-23 years old: pitcher Cade Horton (No. 51), outfielder Owen Caissie (No. 53), catcher/first baseman Moises Ballesteros (No. 68), second baseman/outfielder James Triantos (No. 72), outfielder Kevin Alcantara (No. 89), and infielder Jefferson Rojas (No. 96). Considering the Marlins’ success in developing pitchers, Horton, a former two-sport star, could be a key piece in any potential trade. A recent trade proposal by Bleacher Report suggested the Cubs could offer right-handed starter Javier Assad, Ballesteros, and Kevin Alcantara for Alcantara.
