The Chicago Cubs have made a significant roster move, acquiring All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays. The trade involved sending infielder Christopher Morel, along with pitchers Hunter Bigge and Ty Johnson, to the Rays.
Isaac Paredes: A Solid Addition
Isaac Paredes, who was celebrated as the Rays' All-Star representative earlier this month, brings a robust offensive and defensive presence to the Cubs. Currently hitting .245/.357/.435 with 16 home runs this season, Paredes has demonstrated consistency at bat. Additionally, his defensive skills at third base present a notable upgrade.
Paredes' journey is a story of full-circle. Originally signed by the Cubs as an international amateur free agent out of Mexico in 2015, he was traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2017, where he made his MLB debut. Over the last few years, Paredes fluctuated between the majors and minors with the Tigers before being traded to the Rays prior to the 2022 season in exchange for Austin Meadows. Most recently, he showcased his skills with a 0 for 2 performance, including a walk, in a win over the Cincinnati Reds earlier in the day.
An insider remarked, "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."
Transition for the Cubs
The Cubs, currently holding a 50-56 record and trailing by six games for a wild-card spot, are banking on Paredes to bolster their lineup and improve their standings. Paredes’ familiarity with the Cubs organization adds a layer of comfort for both parties as he reintegrates into the team.
Trading Christopher Morel
Christopher Morel heads to Tampa Bay with a batting line of .199/.302/.372 and 18 home runs this season. Despite his offensive struggles, Morel remains a player with future potential, considering he will remain under team control through 2028. However, his defensive metrics have raised concerns, as he ranks last among all players with minus-12 outs above average at third base. This presented a significant liability that the Cubs are keen to move past.
Promising Pitchers to the Rays
In addition to Morel, the Cubs are parting with pitcher Hunter Bigge and prospect Ty Johnson. Bigge, 26, made his MLB debut this season, and despite his limited major league appearances, he has shown promise with a commendable 1.17 ERA and 23 strikeouts in 15 1/3 innings in the minors. Johnson, a 22-year-old currently in Single-A, has also displayed potential, boasting a 3.54 ERA and 81 strikeouts in 61 innings.
Rays' Recent Trades
For the Rays, who stand at 54-52 and 3.5 games back of a wild-card spot, this trade is part of a broader strategy. Recently, the Rays have also traded Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, and Jason Adam, reflecting a dynamic approach to their roster management. Paredes' departure opens up opportunities for the incoming players to make their mark in Tampa Bay.
The trade between the Cubs and the Rays signifies a strategic shift for both teams as they aim to position themselves better for future success. Paredes’ return to the Cubs could be the spark the team needs to make a late-season push, while the Rays gain depth and potential future stars to continue their competitive edge.