In a surprising development, Kevin Alcántara, a promising young star of the Chicago Cubs, underwent sports hernia surgery on October 16. This is shocking news in the fan community, especially when the 2025 season just ended.
Alcántara, who is ranked as the No. 5 player in the Cubs system according to MLB Pipeline, shared a photo of himself in a hospital bed after the surgery on Instagram. According to the team, the surgery was successful and he is expected to have a normal spring season in February next year.
Despite only playing in 10 games for the Cubs in September, Alcántara made a strong impression, going 4-for-11 (.364 AVG) and posting a .780 OPS. He also made the Cubs’ roster in the NL Wild Card and NL Division Series, where they were eliminated in five games against the Milwaukee Brewers.
With Alcántara having used up his minor league option, he cannot be sent down to Triple-A without a waiver next season, making him a prime candidate for a reserve outfield or DH position on the Cubs’ starting roster. However, competition from players like Kyle Tucker, Seiya Suzuki, and Pete Crow-Armstrong could limit Alcántara’s playing opportunities.
The surgery could impact GM Jed Hoyer’s trading plans this winter. With Alcántara unable to be sent down to the minor leagues, he could become a key player in any trade to bolster the Cubs’ pitching lineup. However, his recent surgery could reduce his trade value in the eyes of other teams.
While the surgery was not serious and Alcántara is expected to be fully recovered by the 2026 season, it has created a significant dent in the Cubs’ roster plans. The fact that he no longer has the option to be sent down to the minor leagues makes him a strategic player in any upcoming trades. Cubs fans will want to keep a close eye on this development, as it could have a major impact on the team’s future next season.
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