While many teams were loudly negotiating and publicly announcing contracts, the Houston Astros quietly made a deal in the middle of the night — acquiring Nico Zeglin from the Cubs in exchange for an international signing bonus.
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Zeglin, a 25-year-old pitcher, has been a bright spot in the Cubs’ farm system. In 2024, he posted a 7-0 record, a 0.95 ERA, and 90 strikeouts in 66 innings — enough to make any organization take notice.
Although he missed the entire 2025 season due to injury, the Astros still value his potential — viewing Zeglin as a rough diamond who could be polished to be a part of the rotation next season.
The Astros finished 87-75 last year, but they fell short in the playoff race. One of their biggest problems: a lack of depth at the plate. With several starting pitchers injured, and a few in decline, the team desperately needs a new pitcher — someone who can carry the innings, or at least help share the load.
Zeglin, with his high strikeout history and long throw, is considered a potential bargain. If he recovers well, a rotation spot could open up — and the Astros could have a solid player heading into 2026 with playoff aspirations.
For the Cubs, letting Zeglin go isn’t a total loss: they get international signing funds — which is important when many young teams are investing in developing talent from overseas.
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However, Cubs fans have a right to wonder: is “trading Zeglin for international funds” worth it? Because a pitcher with a sub-1.00 ERA and a strikeout as high as Zeglin’s is rare — if he comes back from injury, he could be a well-polished diamond.
It’s worth noting: Zeglin just missed the entire 2025 season due to injury. That’s a big question mark: How well will he recover? Will he be able to keep his pitching speed? Will he have the guts to be a starter in the rotation or just a bullpen player?
If he doesn’t get to 100%, the Astros could go from “future investment” to “risk.” But with a relatively low draft — international funds only — the financial risk isn’t huge. It’s all or nothing.
With the Zeglin deal, the Astros are sending a clear message: they’re rebuilding their rotation. With the old names being a bit overloaded, the team needs a breath of fresh air — young, hungry, and with the potential to develop. Zeglin is that kind of choice: throw him in the oven, hone him, and see if he can explode.
For the Cubs, the decision opens another winter of planning: prioritizing international budgets, but also grappling with how to fill Zeglin’s shoes—a daunting task.
In the middle of a quiet winter, the Astros quietly acquired Zeglin from the Cubs. It could be a smart move if Zeglin comes back strong—a cheap addition with potential. Or it could be a risky gamble if he doesn’t bounce back from injury.
Time will tell. But for now: Houston, Chicago—and MLB as a whole—are keeping a close eye on Nico Zeglin. Because who knows, next season, he might surprise the entire baseball world.
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