Astros part ways with former Cubs slugging prospect eyeing an overseas opportunity

Back when the Chicago Cubs' farm system didn't exactly have a prospect worth fawning over, it was easy to get excited over someone like Nelson Velázquez. Velázquez flashed real power during his ascent through the Cubs' system, but never seemed to get much runway once he made it to the majors. He was traded by the Cubs during the 2023 season, and after bouncing between teams over the last couple of years, he appears to be headed overseas.

With the World Series nearing an end, potentially as soon as Wednesday night, teams are starting to get some of their housecleaning items done before the offseason starts in earnest. Among those teams are the Houston Astros, who released Velázquez on Tuesday night. The indication is that 27-year-old will pursue an opportunity in Asia.

Velázquez split the 2026 season with the St. Louis Cardinals and Astros, and if Cubs fans remember, he had a notable debut with the Cardinals earlier this year, hitting a home run against the Cubs on May 29.

Overall, Velázquez's 2026 season was more representative of the hitter he's been throughout his career. He slashed .188/.257/.406 with six home runs. Velázquez was striking out over 33% of the time, and that largely was the reason he never became embedded in the Cubs' starting lineup after he made his major-league debut.

Nelson Velázquez's journey could be a clue for what's next for Kevin Alcantara

Velázquez is often who Cubs fans reference when it comes to Kevin Alcantara. Alcantara, similar to Velázquez, was once a top prospect in the Cubs' system and at various times during his ascent, it's been easy to see the high-ceiling he has. The problem is that Alcantara's floor seemingly has been lowered with each passing season.

That's not to say that Alcantara will eventually be forced to look for an opportunity overseas, with the speed he offers along with being a plus-fielder in the outfielder, he should be able to hang around as a fourth outfielder for some team.

The problem specific to the Cubs is that Alcantara is out of minor-league options. He will need open the 2027 season on the Cubs' roster, or he will be subject to waivers. Before it gets to that point, as was the case with Velázquez, it would seem that the Cubs will trade Alcantara this offseason. Unfortunately, given the lowered floor, the return for Alcantara likely won't be much.

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