CUBS GET ALL-STAR PAREDES!
The Chicago Cubs acquired infielder Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays for infielder Christopher Morel, and pitchers Hunter Bigge and Ty Johnson.
What does it give the Chicago Cubs
It would appear that the Cubs are continuing with the goal of building for 2025 by adding Paredes, who is under team control through 2027. Paredes knows who he is at the plate, and he uses that to his advantage. His pull-side power stroke led him to his first all-star appearance this season. He should slot in at third base and in the middle of the Cubs order for the foreseeable future. At only 25, Paredes has time to continue to get even better. He is an intriguing addition to the North siders in Chicago at this time.
What does it give the Tampa Bay Rays
The Rays just keep on selling. Morel is a more unpolished version of Paredes. They play similar positions and have similar pull-swing power, but Morel has more swing and miss in his game. Bigge made his debut earlier this season out of the Cubs bullpen. The reliever has only pitched in 3.1 innings in MLB, but his strikeout numbers (68K in 54 IP) stick out when looking at his minor-league statistics. Johnson is in his first season in the Cubs system, after being drafted in the 15th round of the 2023 MLB Draft. He seems to be a long-term project.
Fantasy impact
Paredes has become a consistent fantasy performer the past two seasons. His position flexibility and offensive ability has turned him into a must-own player. Going into 2025 with the Cubs, he will not be the first third baseman drafted but is a great second-tier fantasy player. Morel's skill set is tantalizing for MLB and fantasy managers alike. However, his inconsistency and high strikeout rate can lead to frustration. Bigge is a low-leverage reliever in the early stages of his career. He holds no value. Johnson does not ,either.
