The Major League Baseball world was rattled once again as All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes finds himself on the move. A recent trade between the Chicago Cubs and the Tampa Bay Rays has sent shockwaves through the community, taking place just ahead of the July 30 trade deadline.
Isaac Paredes' Return to Chicago
Originally signed by the Chicago Cubs as an amateur, Paredes' journey in MLB has been a carousel of trades. First, he was sent to the Detroit Tigers, then subsequently to the Tampa Bay Rays. Now, he is set to don the Cubs' jersey once more. At 25 years old, Paredes brings with him a slash line of .237/.340/.458 (126 OPS+), complemented by 67 home runs over the course of 354 games. His offensive performance puts him right behind big names like Rafael Devers, José Ramírez, Austin Riley, and Manny Machado in OPS+ among regular third basemen during that span.
Yet, it's not all accolades for Paredes. Statcast’s metrics rank his average exit velocity in the 4th percentile. Moreover, analyst Robert Orr notes that Paredes pulls a greater share of fly balls than any other player in the majors. If Paredes had played at Wrigley Field, Statcast estimates that he would have five fewer home runs this season and 12 fewer for his career. Despite these metrics, the Chicago Cubs see untapped potential in the third baseman. His contract offers the team control through the 2027 season, positioning Paredes as a long-term asset to enhance their batting lineup and overall team dynamics.
Tampa Bay Rays' Blazing Trade Activity
The Rays have been active this season, moving key players like Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, Aaron Civale, Phil Maton, Jason Adam, and now Isaac Paredes since the start of July. Despite winning 99 games last season, Tampa Bay is only half a game worse in playoff positioning compared to the infamous “White Flag Trade” executed by the 1997 Chicago White Sox. This aggressive trading style reflects a management philosophy that some believe mirrors that of Ron Schueler. "Clearly the Powers That Be in St. Petersburg view Ron Schueler as a fearless trailblazer that never got his due," speculated an industry insider, shedding light on the Rays' unconventional yet bold approach.
Christopher Morel: A Promising Addition
Integral to this high-stakes trade is 25-year-old Christopher Morel, viewed as a promising batter with a 90th percentile exit velocity that places him in the same league as Teoscar Hernández and Joc Pederson. Expert analysts shared optimistic views, stating, "Morel strikes us as someone who is a decent bet to be an above-average hitter for at least the next few years." The Rays may strategically place Morel at second base, left field, or even as a designated hitter, providing much-needed versatility. “The Rays may want to plop him down at second base (or left field, or DH) and say, 'that's that, go hit and we won't mind the defensive damage,'" added another expert, indicating the organization's willingness to prioritize his batting prowess over potential defensive shortcomings.
Additional Inclusions in the Trade
Alongside Morel, two other players are making their way to Tampa Bay. Bigge, 26, has already made four brief appearances for the Cubs this season, showing flashes of potential. Meanwhile, Johnson, a 22-year-old recent draft pick from Ball State in last summer’s 15th round, will also be part of the trade. These additions indicate the Rays' ongoing strategy to develop talent and extend their competitive window.
The Cubs and Rays' trade brings significant changes to both teams, promising an intriguing shift in dynamics as the season progresses. While Isaac Paredes' return to the Cubs seeks to boost their batting force, the Rays continue to shuffle pieces, staying nimble and forward-looking as they aim to maintain their competitive edge.