MLB News: Cubs Acquire Isaac Paredes from Rays

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The Chicago Cubs and Tampa Bay Rays made a significant trade just before the deadline. Isaac Paredes will head to Chicago, and the Rays will receive Christopher Morel and right-handers Hunter Bigge and Ty Johnson in return. This deal addresses both teams’ needs and shapes their future rosters and MLB lines.

The Emerging Paredes

Isaac Paredes has been a hot topic this year, drawing interest from teams like the Dodgers, Astros, Rangers, and Mariners. Surprisingly, the Cubs, currently last in the NL Central with a 50-56 record, secured the All-Star. 

Despite their standing, the Cubs are preparing for a competitive 2025 season. President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer indicated that their deadline moves would focus on next season rather than a late run this year. However, Paredes’ addition will undoubtedly boost their current MLB Lines.

Paredes started his professional career with the Cubs as an international signing in 2015 but was traded to the Tigers in 2017. 

He debuted in a Tigers uniform in 2022 and was later traded to Tampa Bay in 2022. Over three seasons with Tampa Bay, Paredes demonstrated his productivity, achieving a 129 wRC+ over 1377 plate appearances, including hitting 31 home runs in 2023 and earning an All-Star appearance this year. Despite a recent slump, he is hitting .247/.355/.438 with 16 home runs this season.

Paredes is expected to take over at Wrigley Field at third base, replacing Morel. While Paredes’ defense at third has been solid, it represents an upgrade from Morel, who has struggled defensively. 

Paredes could also occasionally play first base against tough left-handers and has experience at second base, although the Cubs primarily plan to use him at the corner infield spots. Looking ahead to 2025, the Cubs’ infield appears set with Paredes at third, Michael Busch at first, Nico Hoerner at second, and Dansby Swanson at shortstop.

The Return for Tampa Bay 

The Rays receive a versatile player in Morel, who has played every position except first base and catcher in his three MLB seasons; this factor will impact the Rays’s MLB lines.

This year, Morel has struggled offensively, hitting .199/.302/.374 with 18 homers in 420 plate appearances and a 93 wRC+. However, the Rays hope a change of scenery can help Morel unlock his potential, much like they did with Paredes. Morel could see more time at second base or in the first base/DH mix with the Rays.

Hunter Bigge, a 12th-round pick in 2019, made his MLB debut this month, posting a 2.70 ERA in 3 1/3 innings. Bigge has worked exclusively as a reliever in his professional career, with a 4.25 ERA in the minors, a high 30.42% strikeout rate, and a 15.06% walk rate. Despite control issues, Bigge’s arsenal of plus pitches makes him an intriguing addition to the Rays’ bullpen.

Ty Johnson, a 15th-round pick in the 2023 draft, has shown promise with a 3.54 ERA in 61 innings across Single-A and High-A this season. Johnson has started 10 18 games, boasting a 32.5% strikeout rate. His potential to miss bats makes him a valuable asset for the Rays’ future rotation.

The Rays Payroll Strategy

The Rays, always mindful of payroll, parted with Paredes, who is under arbitration control through the 2027 season. Paredes’ escalating salary likely influenced Tampa Bay’s decision, as they often sell high on players before their price becomes prohibitive. 

This strategy is evident in their recent trades, including moving Randy Arozarena, Jason Adam, and others. Despite these moves, the Rays remain competitive, only 3.5 games out of the final AL wild-card spot with a 54-52 record.

Star prospect Junior Caminero will take over at third base for the Rays, with a clear path to regular playing time following Paredes’ departure.