The Chicago Cubs have made a significant move ahead of the trade deadline, acquiring All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays. In return, the Cubs sent Christopher Morel, Hunter Bigge, and Ty Johnson to Tampa Bay.
This transaction marks a return for Paredes to the organization where he first began his professional career. Originally signed as an international amateur free agent out of Mexico in 2015, Paredes now rejoins the Cubs with a wealth of experience and a solid performance record.
Paredes' Performance and History
Isaac Paredes, who was recently selected as the Rays' All-Star representative, has showcased his capabilities this season with a batting line of .245/.357/.435 and 16 home runs. This offensive prowess was highlighted even earlier in the day when Paredes played against the Cincinnati Reds, although he went 0 for 2 with a walk in that match.
Having originally been traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2017, Paredes made his MLB debut with them and spent time fluctuating between the majors and minors from 2020 to 2021. He was later moved to the Rays before the 2022 season in exchange for Austin Meadows.
“Clearly, the Cubs believe Paredes' extreme pulled fly-ball approach will translate well to Wrigley Field," an insider commented on the acquisition. "They also get a capable third baseman defensively.”
The Cubs' Current Situation
The Cubs, currently holding a 50-56 record and sitting six games out of a wild-card spot, hope that Paredes can inject some much-needed energy into their lineup. The team’s management is optimistic that Paredes' knack for pulling the ball will be well-suited to the dimensions of Wrigley Field, potentially leading to a surge in power numbers.
Players Heading to Tampa Bay
In exchange for Paredes, the Cubs have parted ways with Christopher Morel, Hunter Bigge, and Ty Johnson. Morel, who has struggled at the plate this season with a slash line of .199/.302/.372, has still managed to hit 18 home runs. However, his defensive metrics at third base rank among the lowest in the league, with an outs above average (OAA) of minus 12. Notably, Morel remains under team control through 2028, giving the Rays potential long-term value despite his current challenges.
Hunter Bigge, a 26-year-old right-handed pitcher, made his MLB debut this season and has impressed in the minors with a 1.17 ERA and 23 strikeouts in 15 1/3 innings. Ty Johnson, a 22-year-old pitching prospect, has posted a 3.54 ERA and 81 strikeouts over 61 innings in Single-A, highlighting his potential for future development.
The Rays' Strategy
The Rays, currently 54-52 and 3.5 games back of a wild-card spot, have been active in the trade market. Alongside Paredes, the Rays have also traded away key players like Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, and Jason Adam recently. These moves indicate a potential shift in strategy as the team looks to retool and bring in younger talent for future competitiveness.
This trade not only reshapes the roster for both teams but also signals their respective mindsets as they approach the closing stretch of the season. For the Cubs, adding Paredes is a calculated gamble in their bid to clinch a wild-card spot, while the Rays continue to maneuver their roster with an eye on sustainable success.
Only time will tell how these changes will impact the Cubs and Rays in the long run, but for now, fans on both sides have much to discuss and anticipate as the season progresses.