The Cubs addressed their first base needs and added a hard-throwing reliever, while sending left-handed pitcher Jackson Ferris and outfielder Zyhir Hope to the Dodgers.

Michael Busch, a highly-regarded prospect, has consistently featured in preseason top-100 prospect rankings for the past three offseasons. Known for his advanced hitting skills and display of power, Busch has impressed with hard contact over three seasons in Double-A and Triple-A, slugging an impressive 79 home runs during that span. Although projected to be more of a high doubles and 18-22 home runs hitter in the majors, Busch's ability to make solid contact makes him a valuable addition to the Cubs lineup. He also brings versatility to the infield, with experience at second and third base in addition to his natural position at first base. With the Cubs lacking left-handed hitting options, Busch's ability to handle southpaw pitchers will be a valuable asset to the team.

The Cubs' first basemen struggled offensively last season, ranking 27th among MLB teams in first base on-base percentage (OBP) and 22nd in total batting runs from the position. Busch's arrival is expected to address this weakness and provide a boost of approximately 2 Wins Above Replacement (WAR). Additionally, Busch's strong defensive abilities at first base and his capacity to serve as a backup option at second base behind Nico Hoerner further solidify the Cubs' infield.

Accompanying Busch in the trade is Yency Almonte, a right-handed reliever known for his potential out-pitch in his slider. However, Almonte faced difficulties last year, giving up a significant amount of hard contact and struggling against left-handed batters. With a mix of good and inconsistent seasons on his major league record, Almonte brings uncertainty but also the potential to be a valuable asset out of the bullpen for the Cubs.

In exchange for Busch and Almonte, the Dodgers receive left-handed pitcher Jackson Ferris and outfielder Zyhir Hope. Ferris, drafted by the Cubs in the second round of the 2022 draft, made his professional debut as a 19-year-old in Low-A last year. Displaying a solid performance with a 3.38 ERA and a 32 percent strikeout rate, Ferris shows promise as a four-pitch pitcher with a plus slider. However, he will need to work on his changeup to be effective against right-handed hitters. Ferris' delivery consistency and command remain areas for improvement, but his athleticism and potential as a mid-rotation starter make him an intriguing prospect.

Zyhir Hope, the Cubs' 11th-round pick in 2023, emerged as a superb athlete and a plus runner. Although he faced limited quality pitching as an amateur, Hope showcased his skills in his brief professional debut in the Arizona Complex League, batting .286/.419/.543. Despite a high strikeout rate, the Dodgers believe in his athletic abilities and have a track record of aiding players in making necessary adjustments.

The Dodgers' decision to trade Busch and clear two spots on their 40-man roster suggests a desire to capitalize on his value while also giving him an opportunity to play regularly at first or second base. The Cubs' acquisition of Busch and Almonte addresses specific needs and adds depth to their roster as they aim to strengthen their presence in the upcoming season.

The trade highlights the strategic moves made by both the Cubs and Dodgers as they shape their rosters for the future. While Busch and Almonte bring immediate benefits to the Cubs, the Dodgers look to bolster their farm system with the additions of Ferris and Hope. As the teams gear up for the upcoming season, the impact of this prospect-for-prospect trade will certainly be closely watched by baseball enthusiasts and fans.