The Chicago Cubs made a significant move by adding Edward Cabrera to their pitching rotation through a trade with the Miami Marlins. Cabrera, a right-handed pitcher, was acquired in exchange for outfielder Owen Caissie and infield prospects Cristian Hernandez and Edgardo De Leon. Cabrera had an impressive season last year, posting an 8-7 record with a 3.53 ERA over 26 starts and 137 2/3 innings.
Owen Caissie, a 23-year-old player from Burlington, Ont., recently made his major league debut with the Cubs. While he struggled in his initial games, hitting .192, his performance in triple-A Iowa showcased his potential with a .286 batting average, 22 home runs, and 55 RBIs.
Cabrera, who is eligible for salary arbitration, is locked in with the Cubs until after the 2028 season. The Cubs finished second in the National League Central last year with a 92-70 record and made it to the playoffs, although they were eliminated by the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Division Series.
The addition of Cabrera bolsters the Cubs’ pitching rotation, which already includes talented pitchers like Matthew Boyd, Shota Imanaga, Cade Horton, and Jameson Taillon. Colin Rea and Javier Assad provide additional starting options, while Justin Steele is recovering from elbow surgery.
Edward Cabrera’s debut with the Marlins in 2021 showcased his potential, recording a 25-29 record with a 4.07 ERA in 87 starts and two relief appearances. However, Cabrera has dealt with injury concerns, including blisters on his right middle finger and a right elbow sprain.
While the Cubs strengthen their rotation with Cabrera, Owen Caissie was expected to compete for playing time in right field, especially with Kyle Tucker’s impending departure in free agency. Miami, under new manager Clayton McCullough, showed improvement last season with a 79-83 record, led by pitchers Sandy Alcantara and Eury Perez.
Cristian Hernandez and Edgardo De Leon, the prospects sent to Miami, showcased their potential in the minor leagues. Hernandez hit .252 with seven home runs and 53 RBIs in High A South Bend, while De Leon performed well in the Arizona Complex League, batting .276 with five home runs and 15 RBIs.