As was the case for Edward Cabrera, the Chicago Cubs had their eye on MacKenzie Gore for quite some time. The Cubs were among the teams interested in trading for Gore at the MLB trade deadline last July, but Washington was believed to be asking for a package that included Owen Caissie, Matt Shaw, and Cade Horton. Gore remained with the Nationals to end the 2025 season, but Washington just found someone willing to meet their high asking price.
The Nationals have traded Gore to the Texas Rangers in a deal that sees five prospects headed to Washington, including 2025 first-round pick Gavin Fien.