In a significant move that reshapes their immediate and long-term plans, the Chicago Cubs have executed a major trade to bolster their pitching staff. The National League franchise has acquired right-handed starting pitcher Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins, a deal that instantly strengthens their rotation and provides crucial financial flexibility for the ongoing offseason.
Details of the Edward Cabrera Trade
The Cubs have secured the services of Edward Cabrera, a 27-year-old pitcher coming off his finest season in the major leagues. To facilitate this move, Chicago sent a package of three prospects to Miami: outfielder Owen Caissie, infielder Cristian Hernandez, and corner infielder Edgardo De Leon. Notably, Caissie was the Cubs' top-ranked prospect, while Hernandez held the 11th spot in the organisation's rankings.
For the Cubs, Cabrera represents a valuable and cost-controlled asset. He is under arbitration control through the 2028 season and is projected to earn approximately $3.7 million in 2026. His acquisition follows a standout 2025 campaign where he posted a 3.53 ERA over 137.2 innings, striking out 25.8% of batters and achieving a career-best walk rate of 8.3%.
How Cabrera Fits into the Cubs' Pitching Plans
Edward Cabrera arrives in Chicago as a nearly finished product, ready to slot into a rotation that has experienced some uncertainty. He is expected to join a starting staff that includes Cade Horton, Matthew Boyd, Jameson Taillon, and Shota Imanaga, with Justin Steele currently rehabilitating from UCL surgery. Beyond his on-field contributions, the trade is strategically vital for the Cubs' budget, clearing an estimated $15 to $20 million in payroll space.
This newfound financial flexibility is the key catalyst for the Cubs' next potential blockbuster move. With their pitching needs addressed affordably, the front office can now aggressively pursue a high-impact position player to complete their roster construction for the 2026 season.
The Bo Bichette Connection: Cubs' Next Big Target
All signs now point toward the Chicago Cubs making a serious push for premier free-agent infielder Bo Bichette. The 27-year-old superstar, formerly of the Toronto Blue Jays, perfectly fits the Cubs' needs. Capable of playing shortstop, second base, or third base, Bichette offers a solution to an infield facing questions, especially with Nico Hoerner approaching free agency and Matt Shaw's inconsistent rookie year.
Bichette rebounded powerfully in 2025, silencing any doubts with an impressive stat line: a .311 batting average, 18 home runs, and 94 RBI. His contact-heavy approach and line-drive swing are considered an ideal match for the friendly confines of Wrigley Field. Industry experts anticipate he will command a contract in the range of five years and $150 to $200 million.
Bo Bichette's Key Recent Stats:
- 2025 Season: .311 AVG, 18 HR, 94 RBI, .840 OPS (2nd in AL Batting Average)
- 2024 Season: Injury-shortened, with a .225 average over 81 games.
- Career Profile: A consistent .294 hitter known for making solid contact.
The Bigger Picture for the Cubs and Marlins
This trade creates a clear win-win scenario for both franchises involved, albeit with different timelines. For the Chicago Cubs, the acquisition of Edward Cabrera provides immediate, affordable rotation depth while unlocking the capital needed to chase a franchise-altering bat in Bo Bichette. Successfully signing Bichette would transform the Cubs from fringe contenders into a well-rounded, formidable team for the 2026 campaign and beyond.
Conversely, the Miami Marlins continue their strategy of acquiring young, controllable hitting talent without adding to their payroll, focusing on a longer-term rebuild. The departure of Cabrera allows them to further stockpile prospects for the future.
In summary, the Chicago Cubs have made a calculated and aggressive first strike this offseason. By trading for Edward Cabrera, they have not only improved their pitching but have also strategically positioned themselves to win the bidding for a superstar like Bo Bichette, setting the stage for a potentially transformative winter.
