Cubs recalling one of top outfield prospects in Kevin Alcantara

Chicago Cubs designed hitter Kevin Alcantara. Allan Henry-Imagn Images

Cubs recalling one of top outfield prospects in Kevin Alcantara

By Andrew Wright | Last updated May 23, 2026 12:00 PM ET

Just one day after promoting their top infield prospect, Pedro Ramirez, the Chicago Cubs are making yet another important roster move.

Chicago Cubs recalling Kevin Alcantara

According to an official announcement from the team on Saturday, Chicago is recalling outfielder Kevin Alcantara. Alcantara, the No. 5 overall prospect in the Cubs system, has 21 at-bats at the MLB level over the previous two seasons.

So far this season in Triple-A, Alcantara has been mashing. He has posted a slash line of .242/.339/.567, good for a .906 OPS with 15 home runs and 32 RBI.

In his minor league career, Alcantara has mashed 80 home runs and driven in 361 over the course of 2,056 at-bats.

15th homer of the year for Kevin Alcantara! pic.twitter.com/nhzpCAiRC0
— Iowa Cubs (@IowaCubs) May 20, 2026

The corresponding move

To make room for Alcantara on the 26-man roster, veteran infielder Nicky Lopez was designated for assignment. Lopez had collected just five at-bats for Chicago this season.

How much will Kevin Alcantara play?

For a Cubs offense that has been scuffling late and in need of lineup changes, Alcantara has a path to frequent playing time. Along with the recently promoted Ramirez, neither are in Saturday's starting lineup.

With the absence of Lopez and Matt Shaw on the bench, though, a pinch-hit or pinch running opportunity may present itself for either Alcantara or Ramirez during Saturday's game.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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