The Chicago Cubs have acquired All-Star infielder Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays in a trade that sends minor league pitcher Juan Carlos Paniagua to the Rays.
The Chicago Cubs have bolstered their infield by acquiring All-Star Isaac Paredes from the Tampa Bay Rays in a trade that sends minor league pitcher Juan Carlos Paniagua to the Rays.
Paredes, 23, is a versatile infielder who can play first base, second base, and third base. He is a highly touted prospect who has already made an impact in the major leagues, earning an All-Star selection in 2022.
Cubs Land All-Star Paredes in Trade with Rays
In 112 games with the Rays last season, Paredes batted .245 with 20 home runs, 69 RBIs, and an OPS of .789. He also stole six bases and played solid defense at both first and third base.
Paredes was originally drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 11th round of the 2015 MLB Draft. He was traded to the Rays in 2018 as part of the package that brought Tommy Pham to Chicago.
Paredes is expected to be a key part of the Cubs' infield in 2023. He will likely play third base, with Patrick Wisdom moving to first base. Paredes' versatility will also give manager David Ross the flexibility to move him around the infield as needed.
In return for Paredes, the Rays acquire Paniagua, a 22-year-old right-handed pitcher. Paniagua has pitched in the Cubs' minor league system for the past four seasons, posting a 3.38 ERA in 130 innings pitched.
Paniagua is considered a high-upside prospect who has the potential to be a mid-rotation starter in the major leagues. He throws a fastball that can reach 97 mph, as well as a changeup and a slider.
The trade of Paredes is the latest in a series of moves by the Rays to shed payroll and clear roster space. The Rays have already traded away Ji-Man Choi, Brandon Lowe, and Manuel Margot this offseason.
The Cubs, meanwhile, are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2022 season in which they finished 74-88. The addition of Paredes is a significant upgrade to their infield, and he should help the team compete for a playoff spot in 2023.
