Chicago Cubs Acquire All-Star Third Baseman Isaac Paredes from Tampa Bay Rays
In a surprising move ahead of the trade deadline, the Chicago Cubs have acquired All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays. Heading to Tampa Bay in exchange are Christopher Morel, Hunter Bigge, and Ty Johnson.
Paredes' recent performance showcases his capabilities. In a recent win over the Cincinnati Reds, Paredes went 0 for 2 with a walk. This season, he has posted a solid .245/.357/.435 slash line, hitting 16 home runs. Selected as the Rays' All-Star representative earlier this month, Paredes' potential impact on the Cubs is substantial.
Originally signed by the Cubs as an international amateur free agent out of Mexico in 2015, Paredes' relationship with the Cubs comes full circle. His journeyman tale saw him traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2017, where he made his MLB debut. Paredes fluctuated between the majors and minors between 2020 and 2021 before being traded to the Rays in exchange for Austin Meadows prior to the 2022 season.
Clearly, the Cubs believe Paredes’ approach at the plate, described by an insider as an “extreme pulled fly-ball approach,” will translate well to the friendly confines of Wrigley Field. Additionally, his defensive proficiency at third base provides a substantial upgrade in the field.
On the other side of the deal, Christopher Morel has struggled this season, slashing just .199/.302/.372 with 18 home runs. Moreover, his defensive metrics at third base have been alarming, ranking last among all players with minus-12 outs above average. Despite these struggles, Morel remains an intriguing asset, as he will remain under team control through 2028, suggesting the Rays see untapped potential in the young infielder.
Pitching prospects Hunter Bigge and Ty Johnson also add depth to the Rays’ farm system. Bigge, 26, debuted in the majors earlier this season and has impressed in the minors with a 1.17 ERA and 23 strikeouts over 15 1/3 innings. Ty Johnson, 22, has demonstrated solid potential at Single-A with a 3.54 ERA and 81 strikeouts over 61 innings. These additions align with the Rays’ long-term strategy of cultivating young talent.
This trade reflects the differing trajectories of both teams. The Cubs, currently 50-56 and six games out of a wild-card spot, have made a move to bolster their roster in hopes of a late-season push. Conversely, the Rays, sitting at 54-52 and 3.5 games back of a wild-card spot, have made several notable trades recently, including Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, and Jason Adam, signaling a potential retooling phase.
For Cubs fans, the return of Isaac Paredes—an original signee—evokes nostalgia while providing hope for the future. With a proven track record and All-Star credentials, Paredes is expected to be a key contributor as the Cubs aim to climb the standings. Meanwhile, Rays’ supporters can look forward to the development of new talent, maintaining the organization’s reputation for building competitive rosters through shrewd trades and player development.
Ultimately, this trade could be a win-win for both franchises, each adhering to their respective strategies as the season progresses. For the Cubs, Isaac Paredes' arrival signifies a blend of familiar roots with newfound aspirations. For the Rays, the infusion of promising talent continues their formula of success built on agility and foresight.