The Chicago Cubs look like real contenders in the National League right now but that doesn't mean that they can't get even better.
Chicago showed this past offseason that it isn't afraid to get a big trade done. That was proven with the team's trade with the Houston Astros for Kyle Tucker. The Cubs have seemingly gone all-in on the 2025 season and have a 51-35 record to show for it. The Cubs are a threat but they could use more starting pitching if they want to truly compete against the Los Angeles Dodgers.
So, who could be on the move to help land pitching -- or any starpower -- for that matter?
The Athletic's Jim Bowden had Cubs No. 1 prospect Owen Caissie as the most likely big-name prospect to be moved ahead of the July 31st trade deadline.
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"No. 1. Owen Caissie, OF, Cubs," Bowden said. "Caissie was the prospect mentioned the most by execs — and it wasn’t even close. He is slashing .258/.369/.496 with 18 doubles and 12 homers this season, his second in Triple A. Caissie, 22, appears to be major-league-ready but is blocked because the Cubs have an elite outfield. Five years ago, the Cubs acquired Caissie as one of the prospect headliners in the Yu Darvish trade with the Padres. Now, in all likelihood, they will trade him for pitching at the deadline."
Caissie is the type of player who could be the centerpiece in a deadline blockbuster deal. Pitching is a necessity and there will be options out there -- like Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcántara. Why not see what he could bring back in a package?
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