Cubs may have found new path for Kevin Alcántara after sudden position change

For most of the 2026 season, Kevin Alcántara has appeared to be on borrowed time with the Chicago Cubs. The former top prospect had multiple stints as an extra outfielder on the bench, but has never managed to stick around. Even after the Cubs held onto Alcántara at the trade deadline, it felt like he was a sure candidate to be dealt this offseason.

That may still be the likeliest outcome for Alcántara this winter, but as he finishes 2026 with Triple-A Iowa, the outfielder may have found a new path forward with the Cubs. Alcantara has started sprinkling in work at first base, and since September 6, has four starts in the infield with the I-Cubs.

Considering Alcántara is a plus-fielder in the outfield, there's not going to be a permanent position change to first base. But looking beyond this season, Alcántara having the ability to play first base does create an easier path forward for him to make the Opening Day roster in 2027.

Kevin Alcántara's surprising position change could completely alter his Cubs future

Along those lines, Alcántara is out of minor-league options after this season. The Cubs have reached decision time. If they don't trade him during the offseason, Alcántara could check a box for the Cubs next season they haven't been able to check this year.

A forgotten offseason addition for the Cubs last winter was Tyler Austin. Forgotten because knee surgery in spring training washed away what was supposed to be Austin's return to the majors. He signed a one-year deal with the Cubs, and if nothing else, had the impression of being an option at first base if Craig Counsell didn't want to use Michael Busch against a particular left-handed pitcher.

Instead, with two weeks left in the regular season, Busch has only had two days off this season. Busch has played 148 games this season, and all of those have come at first base.

For as much as the Cubs believe in Busch, even with the power regression he had this season, safe the say the plan for 2027 won't include the 28-year-old playing in 160 of the 162 regular-season games.

That is where Alcántara could have renewed life for the Cubs, especially since he's a right-handed hitter. Not to mention, the value of having him on the bench, considering that Michael Conforto and Tyrone Taylor are also free agents after this season.

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