In a high-impact trade, the Chicago Cubs have acquired All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays. In exchange, the Rays received Christopher Morel, Hunter Bigge, and Ty Johnson, marking a significant shift for both franchises.
Isaac Paredes: A Homecoming
Isaac Paredes, who was originally signed by the Cubs as an international amateur free agent out of Mexico in 2015, now makes his return to Chicago. After being traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2017, Paredes made his MLB debut with Detroit and spent time fluctuating between the majors and minors from 2020 to 2021. He was later traded to the Rays prior to the 2022 season in exchange for Austin Meadows.
Paredes' Performance
This season, Paredes has been impressive, hitting .245/.357/.435 with 16 home runs. His performance earned him a selection as the Rays' All-Star representative earlier this month. In his latest appearance, Paredes played in a win over the Cincinnati Reds, finishing with a 0 for 2 performance and a walk. Though not a standout game, the Cubs are confident in his abilities. One insider mentioned, "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."
Cubs' Current Standing
The Cubs are currently 50-56 and six games out of a wild-card spot. The addition of Paredes could be a strategic move to bolster their chances of making a playoff push. With his return, the Cubs gain not only a proficient hitter but also a notable defensive upgrade at third base.
The Departing Players
On the other side, Christopher Morel, who has been traded to the Rays, is slashing .199/.302/.372 with 18 home runs this season. Despite his power, he ranks last among all players with minus-12 outs above average at third base. Morel will remain under team control through 2028, offering the Rays a long-term asset. Alongside Morel, the Rays receive Hunter Bigge and Ty Johnson. Bigge, 26, made his MLB debut earlier this season and has shown promise with a 1.17 ERA and 23 strikeouts in 15 1/3 innings in the minors. Johnson, 22, boasts a 3.54 ERA and 81 strikeouts in 61 innings in Single-A.
Rays' Position and Strategy
The Rays are currently 54-52 and 3.5 games back of a wild-card spot. This trade is part of a series of recent moves, including sending away Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, and Jason Adam. These transactions indicate a strategic retooling as they aim to remain competitive in a tightly contested division.
With the influx of young talent, the Rays are investing in their future while staying within reach of playoff contention this season. Morel's potential, combined with the promising arms of Bigge and Johnson, provides the Rays with flexibility and depth for the years ahead.
As the season progresses, both teams will watch closely to see how this high-profile trade unfolds. For the Cubs, the return of Isaac Paredes brings optimism and a sense of unfinished business. For the Rays, the acquisition of young talent reflects a forward-thinking approach that could pay dividends down the road.