The Cubs are 11-7 to start 2025 and sitting on top of the NL Central, but that all came to a screeching halt when they found out that ace lefty Justin Steele will miss the rest of the season. With Steele out, the rotation is a big hole, and if the Cubs want to stay in the mix, they need to act fast.
One solution? Trading for Cincinnati Reds pitcher Nick Martinez. Newsweek’s Zach Pressnell recently proposed a trade idea that could bring Martinez to the North Side.
Why Nick Martinez Makes Sense for the Cubs?
Nick Martinez isn’t a name you know, but he’s a solid arm who can provide some stability to the Cubs’ rotation. He’s been shaky so far this season with a 6.06 ERA and 15 Ks in 16 1/3 IP, but he’s shown flashes throughout his career. Martinez has spent most of his MLB career as a reliever, but this year he’s been a starter and the Cubs hope that translates to consistent starts.
For the Reds, trading Martinez isn’t a necessity. They already have a deep rotation. Carson Spiers and Andrew Abbott have been solid at the back end, Rhett Lowder is coming back from an injury soon and top prospect Chase Petty could be up here before long. With that much depth, Cincinnati might be willing to move Martinez if the right offer comes along.
The Proposed Trade Package
According to Pressnell, the Cubs can get Martinez for a package of three prospects: Kevin Alcantara, Fernando Cruz, and Jack Neely.
- Kevin Alcantara: A highly touted outfielder with raw power and speed, Alcantara is the headliner of this deal. He’s an asset for the rebuilding Reds.
- Fernando Cruz: A defensive catcher with a high floor, Cruz can handle a pitching staff.
- Jack Neely: A young arm with upside, Neely adds depth to the Reds farm system and is a lottery ticket if he becomes a reliable MLB player.
This package meets the Cubs needs now and the Reds needs later, so it’s a win-win—or so the proposal says.
Martinez’s Fit in Chicago
Martinez’s numbers this season don’t exactly scream ace, but he’s a veteran and versatile. The Cubs are a walk and steal team, they don’t rely on power. Adding a steady veteran like Martinez could help stabilize the rotation while the young arms adjust to the pennant race.
Plus, Martinez has experience in the NL Central—a division of hitter friendly ballparks—so Wrigley Field shouldn’t be too much of a shock. If he can get some of that old form back he was a reliable option before, the Cubs might be in good shape to contend even without Steele.
Leave a Reply