In a significant move that could reshape their pitching staff, the Chicago Cubs are reportedly on the verge of acquiring right-handed starter Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins. According to a Tuesday report from The Athletic, negotiations between the two National League clubs are active and nearing completion, though the deal remains unofficial as of now.
Edward Cabrera's Breakout 2025 Season
The trade talks have gained serious momentum following what was undoubtedly the best campaign of Edward Cabrera's young career. The pitcher, who will turn 28 in April, established new personal benchmarks across the board during the 2025 season. He logged a career-high 137.2 innings over 26 starts, demonstrating valuable durability.
His performance metrics were equally impressive. Cabrera finished with an ERA+ of 125, a clear indicator that he performed well above the league average. His underlying numbers supported this success, as he posted a career-best Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP) mark of 3.83. Over his five major league seasons, he has compiled a solid 108 ERA+ and 7.1 Wins Above Replacement (WAR).
Why the Cubs Are Making the Move
Chicago's pursuit is driven by Cabrera's compelling blend of raw talent and team control. His arm strength is elite; his fastball averaged a blistering 96.9 miles per hour in 2025, placing him among the hardest-throwing starters in baseball. He complements that velocity with a five-pitch mix, where his curveball and slider were particularly effective at generating swings and misses last season.
Perhaps even more attractive to the Cubs' front office is Cabrera's contract situation. He is not eligible for free agency until after the 2028 season, offering any acquiring team multiple years of cost-controlled service. This makes him a valuable long-term asset rather than a short-term rental.
Fitting Into the Cubs' Rotation
If the trade is finalised, Edward Cabrera would join a Chicago rotation that already possesses considerable depth and promise. The group is projected to include left-handers Matthew Boyd and Shota Imanaga, alongside right-handers Jameson Taillon and the promising rookie Cade Horton. Colin Rea provides further depth, while Justin Steele is working his way back from Tommy John surgery.
Adding Cabrera gives the Cubs another high-ceiling arm as they aim to contend in a competitive National League Central. His arrival would immediately strengthen a pitching staff that the organisation believes can be a major strength.
Considerations and the Road Ahead
While his 2025 season was a model of health, Cabrera's medical history includes past elbow and shoulder concerns, including an elbow strain that sidelined him briefly in September. However, his ability to make 26 starts last year significantly boosted his trade value and alleviated some durability concerns.
In return for their established starter, the Marlins are expected to receive a package of prospects from the Cubs' farm system, continuing Miami's pattern of building for the future. As reported, the deal is not yet official, but with talks described as "close," the baseball world could soon see Edward Cabrera donning a Chicago Cubs uniform.
