The Chicago Cubs have made a bold move, acquiring All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays in return for a package that includes Christopher Morel, Hunter Bigge, and Ty Johnson. This significant trade signals the Cubs' intent to bolster their lineup as they strive to make a late-season push.
Paredes, who was notably selected as the Rays' representative for the All-Star game earlier this month, has had a commendable season. Batting .245/.357/.435 with 16 home runs, the 24-year-old infielder brings a mix of power and plate discipline that should benefit the Cubs' offense. In his last game with the Rays, Paredes went 0-for-2 with a walk in a win over the Cincinnati Reds.
A Full-Circle Moment
This trade marks a full-circle moment for Paredes, who originally signed with the Cubs as an international amateur free agent out of Mexico in 2015. However, his journey took several turns. Paredes was traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2017, making his MLB debut with the Tigers and spending time shuffling between the majors and minors between 2020 and 2021.
Prior to the 2022 season, Paredes was traded to the Rays in exchange for Austin Meadows. During his tenure with the Rays, he gradually established himself as a versatile and reliable third baseman.
A Calculated Gamble
By bringing Paredes back, the Cubs aim to shore up their infield defense and add a potent bat to their lineup. One insider commented, "Clearly, the Cubs believe Paredes' extreme pulled fly-ball approach will translate well to Wrigley Field, and they also get a capable third baseman defensively."
The Cubs are currently struggling at 50-56 and are six games out of a wild-card spot. Paredes’ addition could be the spark the team needs to turn their season around, especially considering the struggles of Morel, who has been slashing .199/.302/.372 with 18 home runs. Additionally, Morel has ranked last among all players with minus-12 outs above average at third base, a defensive metric indicating significant struggles.
Rays' Perspective
On the other side, Tampa Bay Rays, with a record of 54-52 and 3.5 games back of a wild-card spot, have been active in reshaping their roster. This recent trade follows other high-profile moves involving Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, and Jason Adam.
Christopher Morel, one of the key pieces moving to the Rays, remains under team control through 2028, providing long-term value. While his offensive numbers may not dazzle, the Rays' coaching staff might see potential in his raw power, with 18 home runs this season, and aim to refine his defense at third base.
Young Talent
Hunter Bigge and Ty Johnson add depth and potential to the Rays' pitching ranks. Bigge, 26, made his MLB debut earlier this season and has been impressive in the minors with a 1.17 ERA and 23 strikeouts in 15 1/3 innings. Johnson, a 22-year-old pitching prospect, has shown promise with a 3.54 ERA and 81 strikeouts in 61 innings in Single-A.
The Rays have a history of developing pitchers effectively, and both Bigge and Johnson could become valuable assets for the team in the future.
In conclusion, both teams have reasons to be optimistic about this trade. The Cubs get an established third baseman in Paredes, who could provide immediate impact both offensively and defensively. Meanwhile, the Rays acquire a mix of youth and potential that could pay dividends in the long run as they continue to restructure and aim for future success. The remainder of the season will reveal which side gained the upper hand in this intriguing exchange.