The Major League Baseball world was recently rocked by a significant trade move involving once again Isaac Paredes, the All-Star third baseman. The Chicago Cubs and the Tampa Bay Rays have clearly shaken the roster dynamics by agreeing on this substantial trade just ahead of the July 30 trade deadline.
From Cubs to Cubs: Paredes' Journey
Originally signed by the Cubs as an amateur, Paredes’ journey through the major leagues has been nothing short of a whirlwind. He had made his mark with the Detroit Tigers before landing with the Tampa Bay Rays. In a surprising twist of events, Paredes is now making his way back to the Chicago Cubs. This 25-year-old talent boasts a slash line of .237/.340/.458 (126 OPS+) with 67 home runs over the course of 354 games, placing him just behind renowned third basemen Rafael Devers, José Ramírez, Austin Riley, and Manny Machado in OPS+ during that period.
A Closer Look at Paredes' Metrics
Despite his accomplishments, Paredes’ average exit velocity ranks in the 4th percentile according to Statcast's metrics. Another intriguing tidbit from Robert Orr's database indicates that Paredes pulls a greater share of fly balls than any other major league player. Statcast also estimates that Wrigley Field’s dimensions would have resulted in five fewer home runs this season and 12 fewer for his career.
However, the Cubs see immense potential in Paredes. His contract offers team control through the 2027 season, a strategic advantage as the Cubs aim to boost their batting capacity and overall team dynamics. This move underscores their confidence in Paredes' ability to make a significant impact on their lineup.
Tampa's Recent Offloads
Meanwhile, the Rays' front office has been highly active since the beginning of July, trading notable players including Randy Arozarena, Zach Eflin, Aaron Civale, Phil Maton, Jason Adam, and now Isaac Paredes. Reflecting on the Rays' management style, an insightful quote suggests, "Clearly the Powers That Be in St. Petersburg view Ron Schueler as a fearless trailblazer that never got his due."
The Rays, having won 99 games last season, are only half a game worse in playoff positioning compared to the infamous "White Flag Trade" executed by the 1997 Chicago White Sox. This strategic offload may hint at a long-term vision by the Rays' front office.
The Morel Addition
In exchange for Paredes, the Cubs are sending Christopher Morel to Tampa. Morel, at 25, has shown promise with a 90th percentile exit velocity that matches the likes of Teoscar Hernández and Joc Pederson. Analysts have high hopes for Morel, stating, "Morel strikes us as someone who is a decent bet to be an above-average hitter for at least the next few years."
The Rays reportedly have versatile plans for Morel, possibly positioning him at second base, left field, or as a designated hitter. An expert observed, "The Rays may want to plop him down at second base (or left field, or DH) and say, 'that's that, go hit and we won't mind the defensive damage.'"
Additional Players in the Trade
Joining Morel in the move to Tampa are Bigge, 26, who has made four major league appearances this season with the Cubs, and Johnson, 22, a recent draft pick from Ball State in last summer’s 15th round. These additions augment the Rays' roster with a blend of potential and immediate utility.
As the baseball world continues to absorb the ramifications of this significant trade, both teams appear to have their eyes set on strategic long-term gains. The Cubs are banking on Paredes to solidify their lineup through 2027, while the Rays, despite a flurry of trades, seem intent on building a versatile and future-ready team dynamic. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how these moves unfold on the field.