In a move that continues to reshape their big league roster, the Tampa Bay Rays have traded All-Star third baseman Isaac Paredes to the Chicago Cubs, sources have confirmed. The trade, which saw Paredes head back to where his professional career began, was completed on Sunday afternoon.

According to sources, the Rays will receive infielder Christopher Morel, along with right-handed pitching prospects Ty Johnson and Hunter Bigge. Bigge, who is ranked as the Cubs' 29th prospect by MLB Pipeline, already made his big league debut this season, impressing with a 2.70 ERA in four appearances.

Paredes, 25 years old, has already experienced several moves in his young career. After two years in the Cubs' Minor League system, he was traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2017. Paredes subsequently spent time in the big leagues with the Tigers before being traded to the Rays for Austin Meadows just days before the start of the 2022 season.

Since the trade, Paredes has flourished with the Rays, earning All-Star honors and displaying a unique offensive profile. While he hit only two home runs in 57 games with the Tigers, he exploded for 67 homers in his first 350 games with Tampa Bay. Notably, as of late July, all 69 of his Major League home runs have gone to left or left-center field, a testament to his power in that area.

Paredes credited the guidance of Tampa Bay's hitting coach Chad Mottola and the Rays staff for helping him unlock his pull-side power, which has taken his game to new heights. Alongside his power, Paredes has also displayed a disciplined approach and impressive bat-to-ball skills, resulting in his breakout 31-homer, 98-RBI season last year.

Although Paredes excels with the bat, he also brings versatility in the field. While primarily manning third base this season, he has shown the ability to play at first and second base if needed. Paredes is currently in the first year of his four-year arbitration eligibility, earning $3.4 million this season. His contract will keep him with the Rays until after the 2027 campaign.

The Rays' decision to trade a productive, young player with long-term club control may come as a surprise. However, it is worth noting that their top prospect in Triple-A, Junior Caminero, is projected to take over at third base in the near future.

As the Rays continue to make strategic moves, this trade offers them an opportunity to bolster their farm system while allowing Paredes to return to where his journey began in Chicago. With his offensive prowess and defensive versatility, Paredes brings value to the Cubs as they look to strengthen their lineup for the future.