CHICAGO, IL — The first hint came when a Cubs scout was spotted studying pitch data with unusual intensity, and suddenly Miami Marlins starter Edward Cabrera’s name shot to the top of the Chicago rumor mill.
Cabrera’s raw stuff has never been the question: he possesses triple-digit heat, a biting changeup, and flashes of dominance that make evaluators lean forward. What the Cubs see is potential waiting to be unlocked—the kind of live, controllable arm that could transform their rotation if everything clicks under their development system.
Why Cabrera Is the Perfect Cubs Target
While the Cubs have been linked to almost every frontline starter on the market, Cabrera presents a unique blend of high upside, team control, and statistical evidence that he is on the verge of a breakthrough:
1. The Upside is Immense
Cabrera (who will be 27 for the 2026 season) is controllable through 2028 via arbitration, making him a long-term piece. His 2025 season showed significant progress:
- 2025 Stats: 8-7 Record, 3.53 ERA, 150 Strikeouts, 1.23 WHIP over 137.2 innings pitched.
- The Velocity: His fastball sits around 97 mph, and his off-speed pitches generate elite movement, leading to a high strikeout rate ($9.8 \text{ K/9}$ in 2025).
2. The Marlins Are Open for Business
After acquiring the expensive Sandy Alcantara, the Marlins are reportedly more open to trading Cabrera for an “overwhelming return” of prospects to help their rebuild. The Cubs, with their loaded farm system, are one of the few teams that can meet this high asking price, which previously included prospects like Owen Caissie and Jaxon Wiggins.
3. The Cubs’ Pitching Fix
Cabrera’s main issue historically has been command, though he showed improvement in 2025 (48 walks in 137.2 IP). The Cubs believe their renowned pitching lab and coaching staff can help him harness his control and unlock the true ace potential he showed flashes of. His 2025 FIP (Fielding Independent Pitching) of $3.83$ suggests he was actually slightly better than his ERA indicated, giving the Cubs a high floor to work from.
Rival executives have taken notice, sensing that Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer might be ready to move aggressively on a high-upside trade target after securing the return of Shota Imanaga. The window to acquire a controllable arm of Cabrera’s caliber is closing fast as pitching demand rises across the league.
