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Cubs Bolster Rotation by Acquiring Edward Cabrera from Marlins
5 months agoUS
The Chicago Cubs have made a significant move to strengthen their pitching rotation for the 2026 season by acquiring right-handed pitcher Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins. This trade aims to add depth and swing-and-miss potential to the Cubs' staff as they look to compete in the National League Central.
Key Insights
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The Cubs traded top outfield prospect Owen Caissie, along with infield prospects Cristian Hernandez and Edgardo De Leon, to the Marlins in exchange for Cabrera.
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Cabrera, 28, is coming off a career year in 2025, posting a 3.53 ERA with 150 strikeouts in 137 2/3 innings.
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The Cubs also avoided arbitration with Justin Steele and Javier Assad, securing one-year deals for both pitchers.
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Why this matters:: The acquisition of Cabrera addresses the Cubs' need for pitching depth and strikeout potential, while the contract agreements with Steele and Assad provide stability to the rotation and bullpen. This allows the Cubs to have several options in their pitching staff.
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The Marlins get a much needed bat in Owen Caissie who is expected to step right into the Marlins’ outfield next season. The 23-year-old is a former second-round pick who has shredded minor league pitching.
In-Depth Analysis
Background
The Cubs identified pitching as a key area to address this offseason, and Cabrera became an attractive trade target due to his talent and remaining contractual control. The Marlins, with a surplus of young pitching talent, were willing to part with Cabrera to acquire offensive prospects.
Trade Details
The Cubs receive a hard-throwing right-handed pitcher in Edward Cabrera, who has shown flashes of brilliance but has also battled injuries throughout his career. In 2025, Cabrera demonstrated his potential with a strong season, showcasing a fastball that sits in the upper 90s and a wipeout slider.
The Marlins acquire Owen Caissie, a highly regarded outfield prospect with power potential, along with two minor league infielders. Caissie is expected to compete for a starting role in the Marlins' outfield immediately. Cristian Hernandez and Edgardo De Leon are considered long-term prospects with upside.
Cubs Rotation Outlook
With the addition of Cabrera, the Cubs' rotation is expected to feature Justin Steele, Jameson Taillon, Shota Imanaga, Cade Horton, and Edward Cabrera. Javier Assad and other young pitchers will provide depth and competition for rotation spots.
Contract Updates
In addition to the trade, the Cubs successfully avoided arbitration with Justin Steele and Javier Assad, ensuring their presence on the roster for the upcoming season. Justin Steele signed a one-year, $6.775 million deal, while Javier Assad agreed to a one-year, $1.8 million contract with a team option for 2027.
FAQs
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Q: What are the Cubs getting in Edward Cabrera?
The Cubs are acquiring a hard-throwing right-handed pitcher with swing-and-miss stuff who is under team control for three more seasons.
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Q: What are the Marlins getting in Owen Caissie?
The Marlins are acquiring a power-hitting outfield prospect who is expected to contribute to their offense in the near future.
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Q: How does this trade impact the Cubs' rotation?
This trade adds depth and competition to the Cubs' rotation, giving them more options and flexibility.
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Q: What does this mean for the Cubs' payroll?
Cabrera is due a raise in 2026, but is still a cheaper option than many of the available free agent pitchers.
Key Takeaways
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The Cubs have strengthened their pitching rotation by adding a talented arm in Edward Cabrera.
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The Marlins have added a promising outfield prospect in Owen Caissie, addressing their need for offensive firepower.
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The Cubs have secured key members of their pitching staff by avoiding arbitration with Justin Steele and Javier Assad.
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This trade reflects the Cubs' commitment to competing in the National League Central and the Marlins' focus on building for the future.
Discussion
Do you think this trade will pay off for the Cubs? Who won this trade?
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