MLB rumors: Jon Heyman predicts Padres, Cubs will trade for star pitchers, but not Tarik Skubal

As rumors surround the San Diego Padres and the Chicago Cubs ahead of the trade deadline, the one position that many insiders believe they could look for is starting pitching, with Tarik Skubal being the biggest name on the market. While the Padres and Cubs have been linked to Skubal, this MLB insider connects the two teams to other pitchers that could potentially be on the market.

Speaking aside from Skubal, Jon Heyman on MLB Network would say that he can see San Diego trading for Miami Marlins pitcher Sandy Alcantara, while Chicago could obtain New York Mets pitcher Freddy Peralta. While neither is having the best seasons, with both hovering around the 4.00 ERA mark, Heyman sees them as definite ‘playoff starters.’

“I like the Padres for Alcontra, San Diego, and Miami have matched up before, and for Peralta…I like the Cubs. Craig Counsell, big fan from the Milwaukee days,” Heyman said.

“These other two, kind of on the fence,” Heyman continued. “Peralta and Alcantara would be two and three or two and 2A as guys who could be traded, very dependable guys, always answer the bell. Alcantara and Peralta not having their best seasons, but they are guys who put up the innings.”

“Just throwing it out there – I like the Padres for [Sandy] Alcantara… and for [Freddy] Peralta, I like the Cubs…”@JonHeyman mentions two starting pitchers that could receive some serious interest ahead of the Trade Deadline. pic.twitter.com/MPpuSUwokg

— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) June 15, 2026

MLB insider discusses status of Sandy Alcantara, Freddy Peralta

With Alcantara at a 4.25 ERA and Perlata at a 3.90 ERA, Heyman could still see the Padres and Cubs going after them, though he also questions the Mets and, especially with the Marlins’ recent success, in regards to if the two teams will be sellers.

“Alcantara…considered a top of the rotation starter by most…Peralta, same thing, I would say both teams are a little bit on the fence right now. The Marlins have won nine of 11, so look, they have a .500 record,” Heyman said. “So, no guarantee they sell. I would say, same with the Mets. The Mets are more likely to sell…But Peralta certainly would be of interest.”

At any rate, it remains to be seen if Alcantara or Peralta is dealt away and if the Padres and Cubs will be players in the market for them.

The post MLB rumors: Jon Heyman predicts Padres, Cubs will trade for star pitchers, but not Tarik Skubal appeared first on ClutchPoints.