Could the Cubs swing a trade for Mets slugger Mark Vientos?

The Chicago Cubs took a notable step in the right direction this past season, as they made the playoffs for the first time since 2021. While they ended up losing to the Milwaukee Brewers in the NLDS, it was still a successful year for the Cubs. Now, they will be looking to take another step forward in 2026.

As a result of this, the Cubs made multiple additions during this offseason. Their biggest addition is star infielder Alex Bregman, as they signed him to a five-year, $175 million contract. They also brought in multiple other new players like Edward Cabrera, Hunter Harvey, Phil Maton, Shelby Miller, and Hoby Milner.

Yet, the Cubs also lost star outfielder Kyle Tucker this offseason, as he signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers. A few other players from last season’s roster who are also no longer with the Cubs include Andrew Kittredge, Brad Keller, Willi Castro, and Michael Soroka. With this, Chicago has a different-looking roster in 2026.

Yet, when looking at the Cubs’ current group, it is clear that they should not be done making moves yet. Because of this, they are now being viewed as a prime landing spot for a notable trade candidate from the New York Mets.

Cubs Named Top Trade Fit for Mets Slugger Mark Vientos

In a recent article for FanSided, Mark Powell discussed a handful of MLB trade candidates leading up to the 2026 season. Among the players discussed was Mets infielder Mark Vientos, and it makes sense when noting that he has been a popular name in the rumor mill.

Powell then named the Cubs as the best trade landing spot for Vientos if the Mets decide to move him.

“At this rate, a trade seems more likely than not. The Mets have better internal options, not to mention the numerous hitters available via free agency or trade. The Chicago Cubs, who could be without Seiya Suzuki on Opening Day, could use a short-term DH option in the meantime. Vientos wouldn’t be a bad fit, but it doesn’t offer him the same career prospects as staying in Queens,” Powell wrote.

The Cubs could use another power hitter on their roster, so it makes sense that they are being viewed as a potential fit for Vientos. This is especially so when Vientos is only 26 years old and still has the potential to break out. Perhaps a change of scenery could help him take that next step.

Vientos Would Give Cubs a Prime Bounce-Back Candidate

Vientos has had a rough spring training this year and is coming off a down year in 2025, though. In 121 games this past season with the Mets, he had 17 home runs, 61 RBIs, and a .233 batting average. However, this is after he had a career-high 27 home runs and a .266 batting average in 111 games with the Mets in 2024. Thus, he is a prime bounce-back candidate to watch in 2026, and it could make sense for the Cubs to take a chance on him because of it.

Ultimately, with the Cubs needing another slugger in their lineup, Vientos does stand out as an intriguing option. It will be interesting to see if they try to land him from here.

Michael DeRosa Michael covers the NHL for Heavy.com. He has professionally covered the NHL since 2017 and has written for other publications like The Hockey News, BetMGM, Athlon Sports, and The Hockey Writers. More about Michael DeRosa