MLB Rumors: Cubs Predicted To Trade Top Slugging Prospect

Chicago Cubs Outfielder Owen Caissie reacts after hit during 2025 game.

As the Chicago Cubs chase a return to the postseason, one of their most powerful young hitters could be on the move.

Outfield prospect Owen Caissie, ranked No. 52 on MLB Pipeline’s Top 100 list, is widely predicted to be a trade chip as team president Jed Hoyer looks to upgrade the rotation and bullpen before the 2025 deadline.

Caissie’s Path Blocked in Crowded Outfield

Despite Caissie’s strong Triple-A start — an .862 OPS, four home runs, and 10 RBIs in just 19 games — there’s simply no room for him at Wrigley Field. With Kyle Tucker, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Ian Happ locked in, and Seiya Suzuki still under contract, Caissie remains stuck in Iowa. Even with his elite power potential, there’s no clear path to regular playing time in Chicago.

Owen Caissie sends this one into orbit, his 3rd of the year! ✍️

✅️20 HR potential
✅️solid on base skills
✅️16-32% above avg bat
❌️high k%
❌️high BABIPs
pic.twitter.com/Rw6raQlhZq
— Scout the Statline (@StatlineScout) May 7, 2025

If the Cubs do plan to re-sign Tucker or extend Crow-Armstrong, moving Caissie becomes a logical decision. “There won't be room for both youngsters in 2026,” ESPN’s David Schoenfield wrote of Caissie and fellow top-100 outfield prospect Kevin Alcántara.

The Miami Marlins, among others, have long been seeking a power-hitting outfielder — and Caissie could headline a deal for a top-tier arm like Sandy Alcántara or Pablo López.

Cubs Set to Be Aggressive Buyers

With ace Justin Steele sidelined for the year and a 22-16 record suggesting playoff potential, the Cubs are in a position to be aggressive. Whether it’s for a frontline starter or high-leverage bullpen help, Chicago’s trade strategy will likely revolve around its stockpile of top prospects — and Owen Caissie, despite his upside, might be the cost of doing business.