Cubs prospect dominates and suddenly looks untouchable in trade talks

With the Major League Baseball Trade Deadline becoming a primary topic of conversation for the Chicago Cubs, included in that discussion is a question of who the prospects are that the Cubs would be willing to part with in trade talks. It seems likely that one of Owen Caissie or Kevin Alcantara will be moved by the deadline, but there is a pitching prospect who is likely to be generating interest from teams wanting to make a deal with the Cubs.

Jaxon Wiiggins was selected by the Cubs in the second round of the 2023 MLB Draft and has already emerged as a Top 10 prospect in the organization. With Cade Horton graduated to the Major League level, and Brandon Birdsell dealing with a shoulder injury that has wiped away his 2025 season so far, Wiggins could end the 2025 season as the top pitching prospect in the Cubs' system.

Rightfully so, as Wiggins has looked incredible this season. In his last start for Double-A Knoxville, Wiggins flashed his high ceiling as he struck out 8 batters across 5 scoreless innings of work. It was his fifth start at the Double-A level, and chances are that is where Wiggins will remain for the majority of the 2025 season. The Cubs are cautious with their pitching prospects, so if anything, a promotion to Triple-A would be the biggest move Wiggins could see before the end of the season.

The Cubs will likely prefer to hold onto Jaxon Wiggins at the MLB Trade Deadline

Wiggins' early success in the Cubs' system is a reminder that the team's pitching infrastructure is beginning to churn out Major League talent each season. Wiggins' success is also a reminder that if the Cubs have their wish, they likely will prefer to keep him at the deadline instead of moving him to address a need on the Major League roster this season. Through their drafting, it would be an easier path for the Cubs to replace the high-end position player talent in their farm system, as opposed to replacing a pitcher with a high ceiling such as Wiggins.

For a Cubs' roster that will have a long-term need for the top of their rotation in future seasons, Wiggins seems like a clear answer, and for that reason, should be off limits in trade talks at the deadline this season.