The Chicago Cubs and Boston Red Sox are two of the better teams in baseball this year. Both teams will likely be big-time buyers at the trade deadline. But their similarities don’t end there.

The Cubs and Red Sox will likely compete for similar trade targets, as both teams have similar needs. Remember, these two sides battled in the offseason Alex Bregman sweepstakes as they both fought to sign Bregman in free agency.

Now, both teams need starting pitching at the trade deadline, and they’re reportedly eyeing the same pitching target on the trade block.

According to sports reporter Ari Alexander, the Red Sox and Cubs are both showing interest in a potential blockbuster deal for Miami Marlins pitcher Edward Cabrera.

BALTIMORE, MD – JULY 11: Edward Cabrera #27 of the Miami Marlins pitches during a baseball game against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards on July 11, 2025 in Baltimore, Maryland.

Mitchell Layton/Getty Images

Cabrera, 27, holds a 3.48 ERA, 3.55 FIP, and 1.23 WHIP in 88 innings across 17 starts for the Marlins this year. He’s under team control until 2029, as he enters his first year of arbitration after this season. The righty has flashed ace potential at times during his impressive 1.9 WAR campaign.

The Red Sox could use another top pitcher to pair with Garrett Crochet at the top of the rotation. Adding a controllable talent is crucial for the Red Sox because their World Series window is open for years to come, not just this season.

The Cubs need to add a controllable ace, too. Chicago has brought in a lot of expiring talent, including Ryan Pressly and Kyle Tucker. Adding more expiring talent wouldn’t kill them, but it could make for a rough offseason if all their players depart in free agency. Adding Cabrera would guarantee they land more than a rental.

Expect Cabrera to net the Marlins a blockbuster return if he’s traded. His talent, potential, and controllability make him a very valuable asset on the trade block.

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