4 Chicago Cubs prospects that should not be traded this offseason

It is never too early to look ahead at what the Chicago Cubs will do when the offseason rolls around in a little under two months.

Obviously, the big thing to watch will be the Kyle Tucker sweepstakes. If Chicago is able to retain Tucker, it may be a bit of a quiet offseason. If not, though, the front office may explore the trade market, similar to how they did this past offseason.

If that is what the organization decides to do, here are four prospects that should be considered untouchable in the winter.

These 4 Cubs prospects should be untouchable in trade talks

Moises Ballesteros, C/DH

Moises Ballesteros has spent some time in the big leagues already this season, but he will still be considered a prospect in the offseason.

He's shown a ton of promise at the major league level, slashing .321/.406/.536 with one home run, eight RBI and a .942 OPS - not to mention just one strikeout. He has all the potential to be a slugging designated hitter in the Cubs' lineup for years to come.

Owen Caissie, RF

Along with Ballesteros, Owen Caissie has spent time in the majors this season. He has not been nearly as efficient, batting just .192 in 26 at-bats. Caissie's path to a starting spot next season solely depends on how Tucker's free agent journey plays out.

If Tucker signs in Chicago long-term, Caissie does not have much of an immediate role on the team next season. If the four-time All-Star leaves, though, as most suspect he will, right field should be wide open for Caissie to secure in spring training. Despite his struggles in limited MLB action this season, there is no reason to move off such a bright prospect in the offseason.

Jaxon Wiggins, SP

After the graduation of Cade Horton from the prospect ranks, Jaxon Wiggins is the top pitching prospect in the Cubs organization. The team was already hesitant to move him at the trade deadline in July, and that same hesitation should be shown in the offseason.

With several pitchers in the starting rotation set to be free agents after next season, Wiggins may have a real chance to compete for a starting spot in 2027, and there is a decent chance he could even appear at some point next season, assuming he stays healthy.

Ethan Conrad, OF

Trading your first-round draft pick in consecutive seasons should absolutely be off the table. Chicago did it last winter when they sent Cam Smith to Houston as a part of the package that brought Tucker to the North Side.

It should not happen two seasons in a row, though, as Ethan Conrad has a chance to fly through the minor leagues and make an impact much sooner than some may anticipate. With Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ set to be free agents after next season, the 2027 outfield picture is ripe with opportunities, and Conrad could be at the top of the list of internal candidates.