The Chicago Cubs’ offseason hasn’t quite ignited the fervor that many fans were hoping for, yet it wasn’t a failure either. General Manager Jed Hoyer and his team made some noteworthy moves, but they seemed to tread lightly instead of going all-in.
The standout moment of the offseason came with the acquisition of star outfielder Kyle Tucker, a savvy addition that bolsters the Cubs’ lineup significantly. However, it was offset somewhat by the trade of Cody Bellinger to the New York Yankees, prompting a mix of emotions among the fanbase.
As the 2025 MLB season approaches, the Cubs find themselves in a promising position to challenge for the NL Central title. They look to have made strides forward, yet the question looms: can they translate this potential into wins once the games begin?
Moreover, the Cubs are generating buzz as potential players in the trade market, particularly eyeing high-impact starting pitchers. One name making the rounds is Sandy Alcantara of the Miami Marlins. There are whispers suggesting that Miami might be willing to part with their ace, and if that’s the case, Chicago could be an enticing option.
Matt Higgins from SportsNaut pointed out that adding a pitcher of Alcantara’s caliber to a rotation alongside Shota Imanaga, Justin Steele, and Jameson Taillon could turn the Cubs into one of the most formidable starting staffs in the National League. It’s a tantalizing possibility that fans should keep in mind as the season unfolds.
While Alcantara sat out the entirety of the 2024 season due to injury, his 2023 campaign showcased his talent, where he started 28 games, finishing with a 7-12 record, a 4.14 ERA, and a 1.21 WHIP. Those numbers, while not spectacular, illustrate that when healthy, Alcantara can deliver significant innings. His tremendous 2022 season still resonates, where he boasted a 14-9 record with an impressive 2.28 ERA and a 0.98 WHIP.
At this juncture, there’s no firm link tying the Cubs to a deal for Alcantara, but it’s certainly a narrative to monitor as the season advances. The Cubs’ ability to secure a top-tier starter could be pivotal in their quest for postseason contention, further solidifying their ambitions in the ever-competitive NL Central.
