Cubs, Rays Swap Third Basemen

Morel to Tampa Bay, Paredes to Chicago

The Chicago Cubs and Tampa Bay Rays have agreed to a trade that will send third baseman Christopher Morel to the Rays in exchange for All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes, sources told ESPN's Jeff Passan.

Paredes a Valuable Addition for Cubs

Paredes, 24, is a rising star who made his Major League debut with the Detroit Tigers in 2020. He was traded to the Rays in December 2022 and quickly emerged as one of the team's most valuable players. In 146 games with the Rays, he batted .277 with 21 home runs and 81 RBIs.

Paredes is known for his strong defense at third base and his ability to hit for power and average. He is expected to be a key contributor to the Cubs' lineup and defense in 2023.