With Justin Steele set to miss the rest of the season due to an elbow injury requiring surgery, the Cubs are in a tough spot — especially given their already thin pitching depth. Earlier this week, I suggested a trade that could help bolster their rotation by acquiring Padres right-hander Michael King.
Proposed Trade:
- Cubs receive: RHP Michael King
- Padres receive: 2B/OF James Triantos, OF Kevin Alcántara, RHP Jaxon Wiggins
King stands out as one of the top trade options this season, though prying him from San Diego won’t be easy. The Padres are among MLB’s top teams right now, so moving a key arm — even one on an expiring deal — might not be on their radar.
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Still, the return package is compelling. Triantos and Alcántara are nearly MLB-ready and could provide the Padres with key reinforcements, especially as they face several looming free agent departures. Wiggins, meanwhile, is a high-upside arm whose electric fastball-slider combo could fast-track him through the minors if he refines his command.
If the Cubs want to seriously upgrade their rotation, giving up a few top prospects for King might be the move they need to stay competitive.
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