The Chicago Cubs made a significant move as they acquired All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays. In a trade that has sparked industry conversations, the Cubs sent Christopher Morel, Hunter Bigge, and Ty Johnson to the Rays in exchange for Paredes, who has had an impressive season showcasing his skills on both sides of the ball.
A Homecoming for Isaac Paredes
Paredes, who originally signed with the Cubs as an international amateur free agent out of Mexico in 2015, returns to the organization where his professional journey started. After being traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2017, he made his MLB debut with them and fluctuated between the majors and minors from 2020 to 2021.
Prior to the 2022 season, Paredes was traded to the Rays in exchange for Austin Meadows. This season, Paredes has been a standout player, selected as the Rays' All-Star representative earlier this month, and is hitting .245/.357/.435 with 16 home runs. His ability to get on base and provide power makes him a valuable addition to the Cubs' lineup.
Mixed Fortunes for Cubs and Rays
The Cubs, currently 50-56 and trailing six games behind a wild-card spot, are looking for a spark that Paredes might provide. Paredes' extreme pulled fly-ball approach is expected to translate well to Wrigley Field, known for its friendly confines for hitters. An insider commented, "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."
In contrast, Christopher Morel, who the Cubs traded away, has struggled this season. He's slashing .199/.302/.372 with 18 home runs and ranks last among all players with minus-12 outs above average at third base. Despite these defensive shortcomings, Morel will remain under team control through 2028, which adds a long-term asset to the Rays' organization.
Rays Reconfigure Amid Wild-Card Hunt
The Rays, currently holding a 54-52 record and 3.5 games back of a wild-card spot, are also making strategic changes to their roster. Paredes isn’t the only player they have moved recently; the Rays have traded Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, and Jason Adam. In acquiring Morel, Bigge, and Johnson, they are likely looking for a mix of immediate help and future potential.
Hunter Bigge, 26, made his MLB debut earlier this season, boasting a remarkable 1.17 ERA and 23 strikeouts in 15 1/3 innings in the minors. His performance hints at a promising future and potential immediate impact for the Rays' bullpen. Ty Johnson, 22, with a 3.54 ERA and 81 strikeouts in 61 innings in Single-A, is another potential asset for the Rays' developmental system.
Paredes' Immediate Debut
Paredes did not wait long to make his debut for the Cubs, having played in a win over the Cincinnati Reds earlier in the day where he went 0 for 2 with a walk. Although his initial game may not have been stellar, his overall season statistics indicate that the Cubs have secured a player who can contribute significantly to their offense.
Adding an All-Star to their lineup could be exactly what the Cubs need to make a push for the postseason. With Paredes back where his journey initially started, both the player and the organization will be looking forward to a successful partnership as they chant "It's Gonna Happen" at Wrigley Field.
Only time will tell how this trade will impact both franchises, but it’s clear that both teams are seeking to take steps that align with their immediate and future goals. For Cubs fans, getting an All-Star third baseman might just be the energizing force they need for a strong finish to the season.