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Cubs Labeled Best Fit for Marlins Cy Young Winner Ahead of Trade Deadline

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sterling Bennett | Last updated Jul 20, 2025 11:29 AM ET

The Chicago Cubs hold a slim one-game lead over the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central, making for a tight two-and-a-half-month race for the division title. For the Cubs, the time for action is now. There is no promise that superstar Kyle Tucker re-signs this offseason, and the clock is ticking on president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer’s job. As the necessity to win strengthens, Chicago’s approach at the MLB trade deadline takes center focus.

Will Hoyer empty the farm system to save his job? Which stars will they target, if any, or does Chicago view their roster as strong enough to survive without any additions? What is not questionable is the Cubs' need for another starting pitcher and Hoyer’s openness about adding to the position.

Bleacher Report’s Joel Rueter recently wrote about the best fits for the top trade chips at this year’s deadline, calling the Cubs the top landing spot for Miami Marlins’ ace Sandy Alcantara.

Alcantara is the most polarizing pitcher available at the deadline. He has yet to bounce back from Tommy John Surgery in 2023, but has shown glimpses of his former self in short spurts.

Alcantara’s 7.14 ERA is the worst among qualified starters. Yet, a four-game stretch in June may be enough to lure the Cubs into what the former Cy Young winner has to offer. From June 3 to June 22, Alcantara accumulated a 1.80 ERA and 18 strikeouts across 23 innings. If he can extrapolate the month-long example more often in the second half, then Chicago would boast the best pitching staff in the NL Central and claim their first division title since 2020.

Unfortunately, Alcantara is an enigma; acquiring him would not be a rental risk. He is under contract through 2026 with a $21 million club option for 2027. If he pitches well, the Cubs are massive winners, but if Alcantara fails, Chicago is on the hook for $17.3 million in 2026.

The Cubs and Hoyer have less than two weeks to decide their trade deadline approach, and Alcantara presents an intriguing fit. His acquisition may not break their season, but Alcantara’s success can propel the club from a postseason appearance to a World Series contender.

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

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