3 Cubs Prospects Who Should be Untouchable in Trade Talks

The Cubs are looking to make a big second half push and secure the NL Central, which has been the most tightly contested division in baseball up to this point.

If Chicago looks to make some deals at the trade deadline, whether it be to fortify the bullpen or rotation, or even make some depth moves, there are some prospects within their system they should try to hold onto.

Here are three prospects who should be considered untouchable by the Cubs.

1. Nico Hoerner - SS

Hoerner was Chicago's first round pick in 2018 and has already reached Double-A. The 22-year-old has a pair of homers and 13 RBI in 27 games. He's one of the best shortstop prospects in the game and the Cubs would be wise to hold onto him given Addison Russell's struggles, perhaps shifting him over to second base.

2. Adbert Alzolay - RHP

Alzolay had a rude awakening in his most recent MLB start, but otherwise showed promise in his other outings. He could be a valuable call-up for the Cubs later in the season, and should be considered off-limits in trade talks. Despite his struggles, he still managed 12 strikeouts in just 11.1 innings at the major league level.

3. Brailyn Marquez - LHP

Marquez is still a couple years away from being big league ready, but he's showed tremendous upside, fanning 73 batters across 60.1 innings at Single-A. The 20-year-old has an excellent fastball and a plus curveball, and has the makings of a fine pitcher in the bigs.