The Chicago Cubs have made a significant move in the trade market, acquiring All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros. In exchange, the Cubs will send third baseman Isaac Paredes, right-handed pitcher Hayden Wesneski, and promising infielder Cam Smith to Houston.
The Astros confirmed the trade on Friday. Kyle Tucker, who is set to become a free agent after the 2025 season, had a challenging year limited to 78 games due to a fractured right shin. Despite his injury, he made a strong impact, batting .289 with 23 home runs and 49 RBIs. In 2023, he achieved even better stats, leading the American League with 112 RBIs and adding 30 steals alongside 29 home runs.
Joining the Cubs adds another dynamic to a busy outfield situation in Chicago. The Cubs are reportedly considering trading Cody Bellinger, who is also capable of playing first base, and have discussed the no-trade clause of Seiya Suzuki with his agent.
The Cubs have been striving to improve their performance, finishing second in the NL Central with an 83-79 record in both of the last two seasons. This trade reflects an intensified effort by president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer to lead the team back to the playoffs after a three-year absence.
For the Astros, Paredes provides a potential solution at third base, especially if Alex Bregman leaves in free agency. Paredes had a solid year in 2023, contributing .238 with 19 home runs and 80 RBIs. Wesneski, a Houston native, could compete for a spot in the Astros’ pitching rotation, having posted a 3.86 ERA over his appearances last season.
Cam Smith, the 21-year-old infielder selected 14th overall in this year’s draft, adds to the Astros’ promising future. He showcased his potential by hitting .313 with seven homers and 24 RBIs in just 32 games before reaching Double-A Knoxville.
Tucker, who was drafted by the Astros in 2015, has established himself as a crucial player. With a career batting average of .274 and over 125 home runs in the major leagues, his addition significantly bolsters the Cubs’ lineup. Houston, looking to maintain its legacy as one of baseball’s strongest franchises, hopes that they can leverage Paredes and Wesneski to continue their competitive run.
This trade holds promise for both teams. The Cubs aim to strengthen their roster, while the Astros prepare for a likely transition, all with hopes of achieving their respective goals in the upcoming season.