The Chicago Cubs are off to a strong start at 33-21, sitting atop the National League Central with a three-game lead over the St. Louis Cardinals. While most of the division remains competitive—aside from the struggling Pirates—the Cubs have a real chance to create distance and take control of the race.
However, the Cubs’ rotation has taken a hit with Justin Steele out for the season. As a group, their starting pitchers hold a 4.01 ERA, underscoring a need for reinforcements. According to Jim Riley of BALLCAP Sports, one possible solution is trading for Miami Marlins ace.
“I think it’s the Cubs,” Riley said when asked who might land top prospect. “They need to be aggressive. This could be the only season they have Kyle Tucker, and while they should be competitive for years to come, acquiring veteran star now gives them a frontline starter not just for this year, but beyond.”
Alcántara signed a five-year, $56 million extension with Miami before the 2022 season—the same year he won the NL Cy Young. However, his performance has dipped since then. He struggled in 2023 and missed all of last season after undergoing Tommy John surgery. So far in 2025, he has posted an 8.04 ERA and is clearly still working through issues with control and consistency.
Given those numbers, Alcántara may not seem like a smart trade target at the moment. But the Cubs would be betting on a return to form from a pitcher with elite upside.
“You’re seeing some positives from the younger guys,” Riley noted. “Matthew Boyd’s been solid, and Imanaga should be back soon and he’s been great. But for October, the Cubs need one more front-line starter.”
With the Marlins expected to be sellers, Alcántara—who is under team control through 2027—could still command a solid trade return thanks to his past performance and long-term contract.