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Cubs Get Good News on Former Cy Young Winner Trade Target

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matthew Sullivan | Last updated Jun 27, 2025 12:10 PM ET

It's no secret that the Chicago Cubs need more starting pitching, even with the return of Shota Imanaga. Justin Steele is done for the year, Javier Assad likely is as well, and multiple starters haven't been up to par for the team this season.

With a clear need, the Cubs are already calling for teams to acquire a starting pitcher. Fortunately, there are a few solid options. After a report from Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Cubs got some good news on their top trade target at the deadline.

"Based on the Marlins' track record," Rosenthal writes, "It's reasonable to assume they will trade both of their top right-handers, Sandy Alcantara and Edward Cabrera. But Alcantara, if he continues his recent resurgence, is perhaps more likely to go."

The Cubs have already made calls inquiring about Alcantara, and this report from Rosenthal points towards his trade potential increasing. Part of why the Marlins would be willing to sell him is due to the solid return they'll get.

Based on Alcantara's play through the first two months of the season, it wasn't looking suitable for a trade. He had an 8.47 ERA in 11 starts through May and had struck out just 40 batters to 29 walks in 51 innings pitched.

But, since the start of June, Alcantara has returned to his former Cy Young self. He has a 2.74 ERA in four starts with 19 strikeouts and five walks in 23 innings pitched. He also lowered his season ERA to 6.69.

The Marlins likely would've held onto him if he had continued to struggle. They want the best return, and his struggles made his trade unlikely. While Alcantara improves, his trade chance goes up.

"The better Alcantara and Cabrera perform," Rosenthal writes. "The better the offers teams will make for them. And the greater temptation for the Marlins to move them will be."

With such a situation in mind, Alcantara's recent performances have increased the trade chances for the Cubs. As a team most likely to land Alcantara, his resurgence has been a great sign lately.

Between his resurgence and this report from Rosenthal, the chances of the Cubs landing Alcantara have increased recently. It's great news for the Cubs, as they desperately need more starting pitching, and Alcantara would be a great fit for the Cubs.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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