Tampa Bay Rays All-Star Isaac Paredes was traded prior to MLB’s deadline, but the destination came as a surprise to many.
While teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees, along with others vying for postseason contention, showed interest in Paredes, it was ultimately the Chicago Cubs that secured the third baseman.
The Rays accepted a deal headlined by Christopher Morel, a 25-year-old third baseman known for his power, although he has faced challenges during his third season in the majors with Chicago.
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Isaac Paredes of the Tampa Bay Rays in action against the Yankees on July 20, 2024, in New York City. (Adam Hunger/Getty Images)
Alongside Morel, Tampa Bay is also acquiring right-handed pitcher Hunter Bigge, the Cubs’ 29th-ranked prospect, according to MLB Pipeline, and right-hander Ty Johnson.
Morel is currently hitting .199/.302/.374 this year, with 18 home runs and 51 RBIs over 102 games. A change of environment with the Rays could potentially revitalize the form that saw him achieve 26 homers and an .821 OPS last season.
The unexpected nature of this trade arises from the fact that Paredes was anticipated to be a valuable asset for a team pushing for success in 2024. Recent reports indicated that the Cubs were leaning towards a rebuild, sitting at 50-56—last in the NL Central.
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Nevertheless, with the National League wild-card race remaining competitive, the Cubs are only six games behind the Mets, who occupy the third wild-card position at 55-49.
Paredes was highly sought after, making this trade a surprising move for a Chicago team that appears to be in a seller’s position.
Paredes has a history with the Cubs, having begun his career in their minor league system before being traded to the Detroit Tigers after two years, where he made his MLB debut in 2020.
Isaac Paredes of the Tampa Bay Rays plays defense during the 94th MLB All-Star Game at Globe Life Field on July 16, 2024, in Arlington, Texas. (Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
Paredes was traded to the Rays in exchange for Austin Meadows right before the beginning of the 2022 season.
After showcasing more power, Paredes emerged as a key hitter in the Rays lineup, culminating in his All-Star selection this year. For the 2024 season, his stats include a .247/.355/.438 batting line with 16 home runs and 19 doubles, resulting in 55 RBIs over 100 games.
This impressive performance followed a breakout season in 2023, where he hit 31 homers and drove in 98 runs across 143 games.
Given Paredes’s offensive capabilities and versatility across first, second, and third base, he became highly desirable, especially with his contract extending through 2027, which contributed to the significant assets required to acquire him.
Isaac Paredes of the Tampa Bay Rays warms up before the game against the Rangers at Globe Life Field on July 5, 2024, in Arlington, Texas. (Tim Heitman/Getty Images)
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Other teams had the potential to facilitate a trade, but the Rays evidently favored the proposal from the Cubs, particularly appreciating Morel’s potential.
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