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Cubs Predicted to Trade First-Round Pick, Prospects for All-Star Closer

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nelson Hubbell | Last updated Jun 30, 2025 5:00 PM ET

In ESPN’s latest 2025 MLB mock draft, where multiple insiders worked as general managers to hypothetically trade or make picks, the Chicago Cubs are making a blockbuster deal.

ESPN's David Schoenfield sent their No. 17 overall pick, plus outfielder Kevin Alcantara and injured reliever Luke Little, to the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for elite closer Emmanuel Clase and Cleveland’s third-round selection.

Chicago is already loaded with offensive talent, and Schoenfield sees this move as one that could help a World Series push. Clase is not putting up the numbers this season (3.32 ERA) that he did in 2024 (1.84 ERA), but the reliable late-inning arm could help shore up Chicago's bullpen.

"The Cubs have one of the best offenses in the majors but need pitching depth and stability in the closer role," Schoenfield said. "Clase is signed through 2028 on a team-friendly deal, so he won't crush the payroll as the Cubs look to re-sign Kyle Tucker in the offseason.

The Guardians, in turn, are predicted to pick Tennessee's Gavin Kilen, while also adding an MLB-caliber outfield prospect in Alcantara and a potential starting reliever in Little (once he returns from injury in 2026).

Kilen is a left-handed hitter who batted .357 with 15 home runs last season. MLB.com's prospect rankings place him at 21st overall in the draft. Kilen projects as a second baseman, rather than where he has mainly played at shortstop, because of his arm strength.

Although it is purely hypothetical, Schoenfield makes a strong case that fits in line with what Cubs' team president Jed Hoyer has done in the past. Chicago gets a cost-controlled talent and some draft capital in return to secure an elite closer in Clase.

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

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