This Under-the-Radar Cubs Trade Scenario Has Hidden Fantasy Baseball Implications

TL;DR

The Chicago Cubs are considering a trade for veteran pitcher Zack Littell from the Washington Nationals to strengthen their pitching staff. Despite his past performance, Littell's current ERA above 7.00 makes him a risky fantasy baseball option.

Key points

Cubs are considering a trade for Zack Littell from the Nationals
Littell has a current ERA above 7.00 in the 2026 season
He previously had a sub-4.00 ERA in the last two seasons
Littell has a low strikeout rate, affecting his fantasy viability

Chicago CubsWashington NationalsZack Littell

Apr 17, 2026; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Zack Littell (18) pitches against the San Francisco Giants during the twelfth inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The Chicago Cubs are a fantasy baseball dominant team with many weapons that make us very happy. They are also a team that desires to win the World Series, ten years after doing so. To get back, the team will have to make moves to keep it as strong as possible. That includes the Cubs navigating their vast injury chart at the pitching position. In this mock trade scenario, the Cubs call up the Washington Nationals for veteran pitcher Zack Littell.

Fantasy Baseball Impact

The fact is, Littell is not fantasy viable. He has a >7.00 ERA above 7.00 in the early 2026 season. In the prior two seasons, Littell did field a sub-4.00 ERA, which his why the Cubs made this gamble at a nice price. However, even in those seasons, Littell was a pitcher with a low K-rate. He will bank on wins and lengthy outings. Ultimately, better options are out there.

The value is in the prospect of the Nationals getting Jefferson Rojas. He is the Cubs' No. 4 prospect, currently batting .294 with a .969 OPS in Double-A Knoxville. Rojas is a well-rounded player with great bat-on-ball ability. In dynasty fantasy baseball, Rojas shall rise to the majors later this season. With the Nationals' new analytical brass, Rojas could rise quickly as a middle-infielder on a team that lacks much competition in that position group.

Mock Trade Details

Cubs Get:

Q&A

What are the potential fantasy baseball implications of Zack Littell's trade to the Cubs?

Zack Littell's trade to the Cubs may not significantly impact fantasy baseball, as he currently has a high ERA and a low strikeout rate, making him less viable for fantasy teams.

Why are the Cubs interested in acquiring Zack Littell from the Nationals?

The Cubs are looking to bolster their pitching staff as they navigate injuries, and Littell's previous seasons with a sub-4.00 ERA make him an intriguing, albeit risky, option.

What is Zack Littell's current performance in the 2026 MLB season?

In the early 2026 season, Zack Littell has an ERA above 7.00, indicating struggles on the mound that raise concerns about his effectiveness.

How does Zack Littell's strikeout rate affect his fantasy baseball value?

Littell's low strikeout rate diminishes his fantasy baseball value, as he relies more on wins and lengthy outings rather than generating strikeouts.