
The Chicago Cubs are adamant about making the playoffs this season and have done everything in their power to bolster their rotation. The Cubs had a strong offseason by adding some top players, including Kyle Tucker. While things seem to be working out well, they still have a few loopholes to address.
The Cubs are dominating their division, sitting on top with a 35-22 record. They hold the second-best record in the National League and want to win the World Series. Craig Counsell has done his best to lead his team this season, and they are already viewed as a threat.
However, the absence of Justin Steele is causing them some trouble. The Chicago Cubs need to bolster their starting rotation, especially if they want to make it beyond the playoffs. There’s room for improvement; two pitchers have emerged as top targets to strengthen their rotation.
Justin Steele after his season-ending surgery 🥹🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/D1XIVqWyRB
— Cubs Zone (@CubsZone) April 18, 2025
Offensively, the team is set as they have top key players performing at their best. Kyle Tucker, Seiya Suzuki, and Pete Crow-Armstrong have been spectacular at the plate.
Chicago Cubs To Target Sandy Alcantara And Luis Castillo

Rumors are swirling around potential trades for Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcantara and Seattle Mariners star Luis Castillo. According to Fansided, both pitchers would be major additions to the team. If the Cubs manage to sign either one, they will have a great chance to solidify their playoff race.
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The rotation now relies heavily on Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, Matthew Boyd, and Ben Brown. They need another pitcher to ease the pressure on the rotation. The Chicago Cubs are not alone in their pursuit of frontline pitching. Both Alcantara and Castillo are expected to command substantial prospect packages.
Castillo’s full no-trade clause through the end of the season could complicate matters, but if he’s open to a move, the Cubs are seen as a logical fit. As for Alcantara, he’s under team control through 2026 with a club option for 2027, making him a potentially valuable asset. It all depends on what each team has to offer. The MLB trade rumors continue to swirl, and players like Mason Miller are also involved in trade talks.
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