Hypothetical Cubs Trade Brings Mets Freddy Peralta To Chicago

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Tommy Erbe | Last updated May 29, 2026 1:44 PM ET

If the Chicago Cubs intend to go for a championship in 2026, the roster will need to look different from what it currently does. Specifically, the starting rotation will need to be reassessed. With the New York Mets faltering, starting pitcher Freddy Peralta is looking more and more available for a trade.

The Cubs were already beginning the year without left-hander Justin Steele. Originally, his timetable had him possibly returning near the beginning of July, potentially the end of June. However, a setback in rehab diminished those expectations. Then, Cade Horton’s season ended, needing Tommy John surgery, and Matthew Boyd needed to repair a meniscus injury. Edward Cabrera got a blister on his throwing hand.

Boyd should be back relatively soon. Cabrera has been throwing and is expected to be activated after June 5th. Still, the Cubs’ rotation needs help. A frontline starter like Peralta could be exactly what the Cubs need down the stretch. They may have the prospects to make it a doable trade.

Mock Cubs Trade Sends Jaxon Wiggins, Ethan Conrad to Mets For Freddy Peralta

In a hypothetical trade posted by the X account, Sleeper Mets, the Chicago Cubs send top pitching prospect Jaxon Wiggins and outfield prospect Ethan Conrad to the New York Mets. In return, they would receive Freddy Peralta. In this move, the Cubs would be mortgaging their future for a chance at a championship in 2026.

The Cubs are very vocal in how much they believe in Wiggins as someone who could help the Cubs as soon as this year. He is currently rehabbing from elbow inflammation, and his timetable for return is relatively unknown. He may not factor into 2026 plans, anyway. As for Conrad, he was the Cubs’ first-round pick in last year’s draft. His impact in MLB is well into the future.

As for Peralta, he is on an expiring contract. He will become a free agent at the end of the season, regardless of whether the Cubs win a championship with him or not. Sure, after trading for him, they could re-sign him to a long-term contract. But a move like this is already uncharacteristic of the type of things the Cubs usually do towards the deadline. It would truly define their position as “win now.”

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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