The Chicago Cubs have made a significant move, acquiring All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays. In exchange, the Cubs sent Christopher Morel, Hunter Bigge, and Ty Johnson to Tampa Bay. This trade enforces the Cubs' plan to bolster their infield as they look to make a late-season push.
Cubs' New Asset: Isaac Paredes
Isaac Paredes brings with him a notable track record. Just earlier in the day, he played in a win over the Cincinnati Reds, finishing 0 for 2 with a walk. This season, Paredes has posted a .245/.357/.435 line along with 16 home runs, solidifying his status as the Rays' All-Star representative this month.
It's worth noting that Paredes has roots with the Cubs, having initially signed as an international amateur free agent out of Mexico in 2015. His journey, however, has been a winding one. In 2017, he was traded to the Detroit Tigers, with whom he made his MLB debut. From 2020 to 2021, he fluctuated between the majors and minors before being traded to the Rays prior to the 2022 season in exchange for Austin Meadows.
Strategic Fit for the Cubs
Paredes' extreme pulled fly-ball approach is anticipated to be exceptionally well-suited for Wrigley Field. According to one 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."
Defensively, Paredes adds value to the Cubs' infield. As a capable third baseman, his presence will be a crucial asset for a team currently six games out of a wild-card spot with a 50-56 record. In contrast, Christopher Morel, despite his 18 home runs, has been underwhelming with a slash line of .199/.302/.372 and ranks last among all players with minus-12 outs above average at third base.
Outgoing Talents: Morel, Bigge, and Johnson
Christopher Morel leaves the Cubs with the potential for a fresh start at Tampa Bay. He is under team control through 2028, providing the Rays with ample time to develop and refine his skills. Meanwhile, pitcher Hunter Bigge, 26, made his MLB debut earlier this season. In the minors, he has posted an impressive 1.17 ERA with 23 strikeouts in 15 1/3 innings.
Ty Johnson, the 22-year-old Single-A pitcher, offers plenty of promise with a 3.54 ERA and 81 strikeouts in 61 innings. Both pitchers represent developmental assets for the Rays as they continue to build their future roster.
Rays' Perspective
The Tampa Bay Rays, currently holding a 54-52 record and 3.5 games back of a wild-card spot, have been making numerous roster adjustments. Recently, they traded key players like Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, and Jason Adam, signifying a shift in their strategic approach to balance current performance with future potential.
For the Cubs, acquiring Paredes aligns with their immediate goal to compete while also investing in a player with room for growth. Paredes' previous success and consistent offensive production offer the Cubs hope as they strive to close the gap in a highly competitive division.
As both teams navigate the implications of this trade, they'll look to find the right balance between long-term growth and immediate results, aiming to reap the benefits of these strategic moves. For now, the Cubs welcome back a familiar face and a potential game-changer in Isaac Paredes.