In a significant mid-season move, the Chicago Cubs have made waves by acquiring All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays. The trade sees the Cubs sending Christopher Morel, Hunter Bigge, and Ty Johnson to Tampa Bay in exchange for the highly-regarded Paredes.
Paredes' Journey Back to Chicago
Isaac Paredes is no stranger to the Cubs organization. Originally signing with the team as an international amateur free agent out of Mexico in 2015, Paredes was traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2017. The young third baseman made his MLB debut with the Tigers, but his early career saw him fluctuate between the majors and minors from 2020 to 2021. Prior to the 2022 season, he was traded to the Rays in exchange for Austin Meadows.
During his time with the Rays, Paredes has developed into a remarkable talent, even earning the honor of being the Rays' All-Star representative earlier this month. This season, he has posted a commendable .245/.357/.435 slash line with 16 home runs, underlining his offensive capabilities.
Immediate Impact and Strategic Fit
Paredes showcased his readiness to contribute immediately by playing in a win over the Cincinnati Reds earlier in the day of the trade, recording a 0 for 2 performance with a walk. His overall performance this season has clearly caught the eye of the Cubs' front office. According to an insider, "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, currently sitting at a record of 50-56 and six games out of a wild-card spot, are looking to bolster their lineup and make a push for the postseason. Acquiring a player of Paredes' caliber is a strategic move aimed at addressing both their offensive and defensive needs at third base.
The Departing Players
Heading to the Rays are Christopher Morel, Hunter Bigge, and Ty Johnson. Morel, who has struggled this season with a .199/.302/.372 slash line and 18 home runs, ranks last among all players with minus-12 outs above average at third base. While his defensive metrics have been underwhelming, the potential for improvement and team control through 2028 makes him an intriguing prospect for Tampa Bay.
Hunter Bigge, 26, made his MLB debut earlier this season and has been impressive in his limited time, boasting a 1.17 ERA with 23 strikeouts in 15 1/3 innings in the minors. Ty Johnson, 22, has also shown promise with a 3.54 ERA and 81 strikeouts in 61 innings in Single-A. Both pitchers add depth and potential to the Rays' farm system.
Strategic Moves by the Rays
The Rays, currently at a record of 54-52 and 3.5 games back of a wild-card spot, have been active in the trade market, having also recently traded Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, and Jason Adam. The acquisition of Morel, Bigge, and Johnson suggests a focus on long-term development and strengthening their roster for future contention.
This trade marks a notable reunion for Isaac Paredes with the Cubs, while also exemplifying the strategic maneuvering by both organizations as they look to build and balance their rosters. Cubs fans will undoubtedly watch closely as Paredes steps back onto the field in Chicago, hoping his return can catalyze a turnaround for the team's season.