Iowa Cubs Prospects Could Be Key Trade Chips for Chicago
As the MLB trade deadline approaches, the Chicago Cubs are making moves to bolster their roster for a postseason push. But for Iowa fans, the real story might be which young players from the Triple-A Iowa Cubs could be on the move. With the Cubs acquiring pitcher Kevin Gausman from the Blue Jays on Sunday, the front office is signaling it is willing to deal from its farm system to win now.
Several players who have spent time in Des Moines this season are drawing interest from other teams. Here is a look at who could be packing their bags.
Who Are the Top Iowa Cubs Prospects in Trade Talks?
The Cubs have several players who have graduated from prospect status but are still young and controllable. These are the names most likely to be asked about in trade discussions.
Matt Shaw, INF – The 24-year-old former first-round pick has been a super utility man for Chicago this year. He is currently on the injured list with a left hand sprain but is under team control through 2031. Teams looking for an MLB-ready infielder will certainly ask about Shaw.
Pedro Ramírez, INF – At 22, Ramírez has impressed in his first big league stint, hitting .319 with an .832 OPS in 38 games. He can play multiple positions and has shown a big jump in power this season. He is a versatile piece other teams will covet.
Moises Ballesteros, C – The 22-year-old catcher was the Cubs' top prospect entering the season. He made the Opening Day roster but struggled at the plate and was sent back to Triple-A Iowa. Despite the rough numbers, his offensive upside and defensive improvements make him an intriguing trade chip.
Kevin Alcántara, OF – Acquired from the Yankees in the Anthony Rizzo trade, the 24-year-old has put up strong numbers in Triple-A Iowa but has not found a consistent role in Chicago's crowded outfield. His combination of power, speed, and defense makes him a valuable trade asset.
Which Iowa Cubs Prospects Are Rising Fast?
Some players have burst onto the scene this season and could be the centerpieces of trade packages.
Owen Ayers, C – The 25-year-old catcher has been a breakout star, hitting .322 with 23 homers and a 1.051 OPS in 88 games between High-A and Triple-A. He is ranked No. 3 in the Cubs' system and is near MLB readiness.
Josiah Hartshorn, OF – The 19-year-old switch-hitter has soared to No. 1 on the Cubs' prospect list after a dominant season in Single-A and High-A. He is hitting .279 with 16 homers and an .907 OPS, showing elite plate discipline.
Mason McGwire, RHP – The son of Mark McGwire, this 22-year-old right-hander has emerged from obscurity to become a top pitching prospect. He has a 3.64 ERA with 72 strikeouts in 59.1 innings and made the All-Star Futures Game.
Kane Kepley, OF – A 2025 second-round pick, Kepley has been a base-stealing machine with 50 steals and an .858 OPS in High-A. His .438 on-base percentage makes him a dynamic leadoff threat.
What About Pitching Prospects?
The Cubs' system is thin on pitching, but one arm stands out.
Jaxon Wiggins, RHP – The 24-year-old entered the season as a Top 100 prospect but has struggled with a shoulder injury and poor performance in Triple-A Iowa. He still has elite stuff and upside, making him a likely ask in any trade package.
Why Should Iowa Fans Care?
For fans who follow the Iowa Cubs, these names are familiar. If the Cubs make a big trade, several of these players could be heading to new organizations. That means the Des Moines roster could look very different after Tuesday's deadline.
It also means the Cubs are serious about winning now, which could lead to more competitive baseball at Wrigley Field and potentially more exciting players coming through Iowa on their way to Chicago.
Stay tuned as the trade deadline drama unfolds.