Mason Miller trade fallout puts two Padres pitchers in Cubs’ sights

Major League Baseball is still shaking from the massive trade that saw the San Diego Padres send a massive haul to the Athletics for closer Mason Miller and starting pitcher J.P. Sears. Creativity has been at the center of every Padres' rumor ahead of the MLB trade deadline, and it would seem the fallout of the Miller trade could have a direct impact on what the Chicago Cubs do next.

There's been some speculation that the Padres may still look to move relief pitcher Robert Suarez and starting pitcher Dylan Cease, even after the Miller trade has them seemingly pushing their chips to the middle of the table for the 2025 season.

Moving Suarez would certainly be tied to the Padres' payroll situation, and it's far from a certainty that he will be moved before the deadline on Thursday evening. After adding Andrew Kittredge overnight from the Baltimore Orioles, there has been some speculation that the Cubs may still be in the market for a high-leverage relief pitcher. It stands to reason they will check in on Suarez's status, considering the creativity the Padres often elect at the deadline.

Cubs quietly lurking as Padres pitchers become trade bait post-Mason Miller deal

Similarly, as the Padres look to address their position player needs ahead of the deadline, they could also move Dylan Cease before the day is done.

The Cubs have previously been linked to Cease, but the fit doesn't appear to be there. With the Padres seeking position players who can help as soon as this season, it seems unlikely that Owen Caissie and Kevin Alcantara would be at the top of their wish list. Each are intriguing prospects, but likely not the target of a team hoping for immediate results. The Cubs, also, likely would not be willing to move either of their outfield prospects for a rental.

If not Cease, the Cubs remain on the hunt for a top-of-the-rotation starting pitcher. As the day goes on, it seems that a deal for one of the Miami Marlins' starters--Edward Cabrera or Sandy Alcantara--is the likeliest of all the current options the Cubs are sifting through.

More Cubs Rumors from Cubbies Crib