The Chicago Cubs have made a significant move ahead of the trade deadline, acquiring All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays. In return, the Cubs sent Christopher Morel, Hunter Bigge, and Ty Johnson to the Rays. This trade represents a strategic shift for both teams as they aim to recalibrate their rosters for the remainder of the season.
Isaac Paredes Joins the Cubs
Isaac Paredes, who was selected as the Rays' All-Star representative earlier this month, joins the Cubs after putting up a solid season with a batting line of .245/.357/.435 and 16 home runs. Paredes played earlier in the day against the Cincinnati Reds, going 0 for 2 with a walk, before the trade was finalized. This acquisition marks a homecoming of sorts for Paredes, who originally signed with the Cubs as an international amateur free agent out of Mexico in 2015 before being traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2017.
Paredes' career has seen him oscillate between the majors and minors from 2020 to 2021 while with the Tigers. In the offseason prior to the 2022 season, he was traded to the Rays in exchange for Austin Meadows. With the Cubs currently holding a 50-56 record and being six games out of a wild-card spot, the addition of Paredes might provide a necessary spark both offensively and defensively.
Focus on Paredes' Potential
Chicago has high hopes for the 24-year-old third baseman. An insider commented on the trade, highlighting the Cubs' optimism: "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 potential impact of Paredes' approach at the plate and his defensive capabilities could address some of the Cubs' current shortcomings and possibly influence their performance down the stretch.
Details of the Trade
In sending Christopher Morel to the Rays, the Cubs part with a player currently slashing .199/.302/.372 with 18 home runs this season. Morel has struggled defensively, ranking last among all players with minus-12 outs above average at third base. However, he will remain under team control through 2028, giving the Rays a lengthy window to develop his talent.
Pitchers Hunter Bigge and Ty Johnson also head to Tampa Bay. The 26-year-old Bigge made his MLB debut earlier this season, compiling an impressive 1.17 ERA with 23 strikeouts over 15 1/3 innings in the minors. Meanwhile, the 22-year-old Johnson has posted a 3.54 ERA with 81 strikeouts in 61 innings in Single-A, showcasing his potential future value.
Rays' Recent Moves
The Rays, currently 54-52 and 3.5 games back of a wild-card spot, have been active on the trade front. Recent transactions saw them parting with notable players Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, and Jason Adam. In acquiring Morel, Bigge, and Johnson, the Rays may be looking to build depth and versatility, aiming for a more balanced roster while focusing on future prospects.
As the Cubs and Rays adjust to their newly structured rosters, all eyes will be on how Paredes integrates into the Cubs' lineup and whether his addition will galvanize the team for a playoff push. Conversely, the Rays will be assessing the long-term potential of their new acquisitions as they navigate the remainder of the season.