As the Chicago Cubs play the waiting game on a potential Sandy Alcantara trade, they find themselves scrambling for answers. With ace Justin Steele sidelined for the season, Chicago’s rotation is suddenly a puzzle missing its most crucial pieces. And no, trading for Alcantara isn’t exactly a done deal—so why not look at a $73.5 million arm from the Minnesota Twins? Sometimes, the best deals don’t come in flashy packages.

Alcantara has become one of the most talked-about names heading into the 2025 season. Many clubs like the Atlanta Braves and the New York Mets have been linked with him, besides the Cubs. With this much competition, the Cubs could pursue Pablo Lopez. And MLB analyst Bruce Levine certainly thinks so.

Levine gave his two cents on the situation, saying, “Another pitcher that I think is more attainable, guys, and Ryan, you’re gonna have to talk about this a little bit, is getting…Pablo Lopez from the Minnesota Twins.”  The Cubs will face stiff competition when they enter the market for Alcantara. And with the Cubs not having a history of spending big, it will be difficult to compete against teams like the Mets. So, Lopez is a good fit. The Cubs’ strong farm system positions them well to make a competitive offer for Lopez without parting with their top-tier prospects.

According to reports, the Twins are open to trading Lopez as part of their strategy to reduce payroll amid ownership changes. The Twins are looking to free up financial flexibility, allowing them to focus on rebuilding their roster with younger, cost-effective talent. Trading Lopez, who has a $73.5 million contract through 2027, would help the Twins reset their financial priorities and invest in the future.

With Alcantara’s trade market heating up and the Cubs searching for a reliable starter, they may need to think beyond the flashy names. While the Alcantara sweepstakes are a tough win against deep-pocketed teams, Lopez could be the underrated ace Chicago needs. After all, in a game of big bets, sometimes it’s the quiet, calculated moves that deliver the jackpot. Let’s see if the Cubs can make their move without breaking the bank.

How will trade with Twins help Cubs in replacing Justin Steele?

The Cubs’ rotation was already a bit shaky, but losing Steele for the season adds a whole new level of uncertainty. While headlines toss Alcantara’s name around like confetti at a parade, Chicago might want to take a more sensible route. With Lopez, the Cubs have a good chance of gaining the stability they desperately need.

Over the past three seasons, Lopez has made 32 starts each year, showcasing both durability and consistency—two qualities the Cubs are seeking. With a walk rate of just 6.1% during that span, he’s known for elite control, keeping base runners to a minimum and avoiding the kind of bullpen meltdowns that come from short outings. Analysts at Bleed Cubbie Blue have highlighted these strengths, suggesting Lopez fits the Cubs’ current needs perfectly. And with the Twins open to dealing him, the timing couldn’t be better for the Cubs to strike.

While Lopez doesn’t bring the same electric upside as Steele at his best, he offers a dependable arm capable of anchoring the rotation through a long, grueling season. In a year when the Cubs can’t afford many more injuries or gambles, Lopez may be the steadying presence they need. Not flashy, but definitely effective.

And let’s be honest—flashy hasn’t exactly won the Cubs a World Series since, well, ever. With Lopez, they wouldn’t be chasing a headline; they’d be securing innings, efficiency, and a whole lot fewer bullpen emergencies. Sometimes the smartest move isn’t the loudest—it’s the one that actually works. If the Cubs are serious about contending, it’s time to stop dreaming of aces and start dealing for one that’s available.