Isaac Paredes
Isaac Paredes, the Rays' lone All-Star in 2024, has been a hot commodity on the market with three-and-a-half years of team control remaining. Paredes is slashing .247/.355/.438 with 16 home runs and 55 RBI in 425 plate appearances this season. Ranked among the top 30 players in the league for both fWAR (2.9) and wRC+ (130), he provides a significant upgrade for the Cubs, who are six games back from the final NL Wild Card spot.
The Cubs have struggled at third base, ranking 28th in fWAR and among the lowest in average, OBP, and SLG at the position. Paredes will immediately slot in as the starting third baseman, likely batting in the heart of their order alongside Michael Busch, Seiya Suzuki, and Ian Happ. This acquisition could make the Cubs a more attractive betting option as they fight for a playoff spot.