The Chicago Cubs are positioning themselves for a strong finish this MLB season, currently holding a 60-42 record and trailing the Milwaukee Brewers by only one game in the National League Central. As they lead the NL wild card standings by five games, the Cubs are expected to be active buyers before the approaching trade deadline, focusing primarily on improving their starting pitching. With key arms Justin Steele sidelined for the season and Jameson Taillon dealing with a calf injury, Chicago’s rotation depth has been tested, relying on veterans like Colin Rea and emerging pitchers Ben Brown and Cade Horton.
Shota Imanaga and Matthew Boyd have delivered solid performances at the top of the rotation, but acquiring Joe Ryan could elevate the Cubs’ pitching staff from average to a dominant force.
Details of Potential Trade Between Cubs and Twins
The proposed trade would send right-handed pitcher Joe Ryan from the Minnesota Twins to the Chicago Cubs, bolstering Chicago’s rotation with a reliable ace. In return, the Twins would receive two of the Cubs’ top prospects. Outfielder Alcantara, who has had limited major league exposure but posted a .264/.349/.457 slash line in Triple-A this season, would be part of the package. The Cubs’ outfield depth makes Alcantara a negotiable asset.
The other key piece for the Twins is pitching prospect Jaxon Wiggins, who has quickly risen through the minor leagues despite undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2023. Wiggins, drafted in the second round of the 2022 MLB Draft, has returned strong in 2025, showcasing a 2.25 ERA with 48 strikeouts over 36 innings pitched at Double-A. His recent dominance with the Tennessee Smokies helped them record their first no-hitter since 2022, where he contributed nine strikeouts alongside teammates A.J. Puckett and Sam Armstrong.
“ð¨ KNOXVILLE NO-HITTER ð¨@Cubs prospects Jaxon Wiggins (9 K’s), A.J. Puckett + Sam Armstrong team up for @smokiesbaseball’s first no-hitter since 2022 ð pic.twitter.com/JUcY2zxq6t” — Minor League Baseball (@MiLB)
Joe Ryan, currently enjoying an All-Star season, holds a 10-4 record with a 2.63 ERA and 132 strikeouts over 116.1 innings. Under team control through the 2028 season, Ryan would immediately move to the top rotation spot for the Cubs, complementing Imanaga and Boyd to create one of the most formidable starting pitching trios in the National League.
Implications for Fantasy Baseball and Cubs’ Playoff Aspirations
From a fantasy baseball perspective, Joe Ryan’s move to Chicago represents a significant upgrade. Transitioning from the hitter-friendly Target Field to the more neutral and often pitcher-friendly Wrigley Field improves Ryan’s chances of maintaining strong ratios. Moreover, joining a contender enhances his opportunity to secure more wins as the Cubs push for an NL pennant. This trade could also shift the balance of power in the NL Central and wild card race, giving Chicago a needed boost in pitching depth as the postseason approaches.
Future Outlook for Both Teams
For Chicago, acquiring Ryan signals a commitment to immediate contention by reinforcing their rotation with a top-tier starter. The trade deadline could see the Cubs making similar moves to solidify their postseason push. Meanwhile, Minnesota gains high-upside talent in Alcantara and Wiggins, both capable of contributing to the Twins’ future rebuilding efforts once Ryan’s tenure concludes in 2028.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Joe Ryan healthy?
A. Ryan had to sit out the last two months of the 2024 season because of a shoulder strain. In Fort Myers, he seems fit and healthy again. His consistent performance on the mound is encouraging for the Twins, showing he might be back to his old self.
Q. How did the twins get Joe Ryan?
A. Minnesota traded with Tampa Bay for him as a promising player in return for Nelson Cruz. They helped him become an All-Star pitcher with a career-best 2.72 ERA and a 3.20 FIP. This season, he achieved 121 strikeouts and 23 walks over 109 1/3 innings.