The Chicago Cubs wrapped up the first half sitting pretty at 57-39, leading the NL Central by a game over Milwaukee. They’ve got the second-best record in the National League and just swept two games from the Yankees to close out the break.
But here’s the thing – they’re going to need help if they want to make a serious run.
The Cubs have holes in both their rotation and bullpen, especially with Justin Steele done for the season. That’s left them scrambling for frontline pitching to pair with Shota Imanaga.
Tyler Ward from Bleacher Report thinks Miami’s Sandy Alcantara could be the answer, despite the former Cy Young winner’s struggles this year.
“Due to the unfortunate injuries that they continue to sustain and a lack of consistency there that Sandy would be a nice piece that they can hopefully buy without giving up and arm and a leg and gain themselves a true formidable mid-rotation starter,” Ward said on his podcast.
Now, Alcantara’s numbers this year are rough – he’s 4-9 with a 7.22 ERA and a -1.6 WAR through 18 starts. That’s a far cry from the two-time All-Star who dominated just a few seasons ago.
But here’s what makes this interesting: his trade value has cratered, which means the Cubs might not have to give up much to get him. Plus, he’s got two years of club control remaining with a 2027 option, so this isn’t just a rental situation.
The way I see it, a change of scenery could do wonders for Alcantara. Miami’s going nowhere this season – they’re well out of postseason contention and probably looking to dump salary. Meanwhile, the Cubs are legitimate World Series contenders who could provide the kind of environment where a veteran pitcher can rediscover his form.
It’s not like Chicago has many other options right now. With Steele out and their rotation depth tested, they need someone who can eat innings and potentially step up in October. Alcantara’s ceiling is still that of an ace, even if his floor has been pretty ugly this year.
The trade deadline’s going to be crucial for the Cubs. They’re in a great position, but pitching wins championships, and right now they don’t have enough of it.
