The Chicago Cubs made a notable acquisition in their roster today by securing All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays. The Cubs sent Christopher Morel, Hunter Bigge, and Ty Johnson to the Rays in the exchange.
Paredes' Profile and Background
Isaac Paredes brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Cubs’ lineup. This season, Paredes has posted a batting line of .245/.357/.435 with 16 home runs, demonstrating both power and plate discipline. Earlier in the day, Paredes had a 0 for 2 performance with a walk in a win against the Cincinnati Reds. Notably, Paredes was selected as the Rays' All-Star representative this month, highlighting his standout performance this season.
Paredes originally signed with the Cubs as an international amateur free agent out of Mexico in 2015, marking a return to his initial organization. He was later traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2017, where he made his MLB debut. Between 2020 and 2021, Paredes oscillated between the major and minor leagues. Prior to the 2022 season, he was traded to the Rays in exchange for Austin Meadows, and since then, he has solidified himself as a reliable player in the major leagues.
Trade Impact on Cubs
The acquisition of Paredes is seen as a significant move for the Cubs as they aim to boost their roster with a proven talent at third base. An insider noted, "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." This statement underscores the confidence the Cubs have in Paredes' potential to enhance their team's performance, particularly with his ability to target the friendly confines of Wrigley Field.
The Cubs' current record stands at 50-56, placing them six games out of a wild-card spot. Adding Paredes to the lineup could be the catalyst they need to make a strong push for postseason contention.
A Closer Look at the Departing Cubs
As the Cubs welcome Paredes, they bid farewell to Christopher Morel, Hunter Bigge, and Ty Johnson. Morel, who has slashed .199/.302/.372 with 18 home runs this season, ranks last among all players with minus-12 outs above average at third base. Despite these struggles, Morel will remain under team control through 2028, providing the Rays with a controllable talent to develop further.
Hunter Bigge, aged 26, made his MLB debut earlier this season. He has recorded a 1.17 ERA with 23 strikeouts in 15 1/3 innings in the minors, showcasing his potential as a promising pitcher. Meanwhile, 22-year-old Ty Johnson has posted a 3.54 ERA and 81 strikeouts in 61 innings in Single-A, adding another young arm to the Rays' system.
Rays Reinforce Their Future
The addition of Morel, Bigge, and Johnson aligns with the Rays' recent strategies, as they traded away talents like Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, and Jason Adam, aiming to build a robust roster for the future. Currently holding a 54-52 record and 3.5 games back of a wild-card spot, the Rays are focused on retooling with young, controllable assets, and this trade further supports that approach.
The departure of Paredes marks the end of a chapter for the Rays, who will now look to develop their new acquisitions and continue their quest for consistent competitiveness.
In conclusion, this trade reflects the strategic maneuvers of both the Cubs and the Rays, with each team addressing its immediate needs and future potential. For the Cubs, the return of Isaac Paredes heralds a promising upgrade at third base, while the Rays aim to cultivate the talents of Morel, Bigge, and Johnson.