It only took one series for Owen Caissie to fill Cubs fans with regret

Edward Cabrera is making his Chicago Cubs' debut on Monday night against the Los Angeles Angels, but some fans are already side-eyeing the trade. Not because of anything Cabrera has (or hasn't) done with the Cubs, but because of the start Owen Caissie has had with the Miami Marlins.

The Marlins swept the Colorado Rockies to open the season, and Sunday's victory was the result of a two-run pinch-hit home run by Caissie.

The walk-off home run sealed what a terrific opening weekend it was for Caissie in a Marlins uniform. Caissie has 5 hits in his first 10 plate appearances with 2 doubles and the home run he hit on Sunday afternoon.

While Caissie was making his ascent through the Cubs' farm system, there was never a question over the potential of his bat. Initially, Caissie was part of the Cubs' equation when it came to their preference to stay out of the bidding for Kyle Tucker last offseason. With some questioning if the Cubs have enough offense, Caissie's hot start with the Marlins is providing early reason for many to have lazy takes when it comes to the trade that was made.

Owen Caissie's hot start with the Marlins has been impressive, but not a reason for the Chicago Cubs to second-guess Edward Cabrera.

There's also some revisionist history. During the offseason, it wasn't just clear that the Cubs needed a starting pitcher; they needed a starting pitcher that was different from the pitchers they already have in their rotation. Cabrera checks that box with a fastball that can reach triple digits, and a changeup capable of missing bats.

Cabrera is also under control through the 2028 season. In other words, it takes something to get something. The Cubs weren't going to get three years of control for a starting pitcher capable of reaching the top of a rotation without giving up something of value. No, the Cubs didn't enter the offseason wanting to trade Caissie, for the reasons we saw this past weekend. But if Cabrera is who the Cubs believe him to be, it's a trade that the team should make ten times over.

A controllable ace is far more valuable than a power-hitting outfielder. In other words, it would be easier for the Cubs to replace Caissie's theoretical potential than it would be to find a starting pitcher with the ceiling that Cabrera has, and one who is ready to contribute to their success in 2026. Perhaps the conversation changes at the end of the season, but it's far too early to second-guess the Cubs' decision to part with Caissie in exchange for Cabrera.