The Chicago Cubs pull off a blockbuster trade with the Houston Astros, with outfielder Kyle Tucker poised to join the North Siders. According to The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal, the Cubs will send a package led by infielder Isaac Paredes, along with right-hander Hayden Wesneski and third base prospect Cam Smith, to the Astros in exchange for Tucker. The deal was first reported to be nearing completion by The New York Post’s Jon Heyman. ESPN’s Jeff Passan first reported that the deal was done.
Tucker will become the Cubs’ starting right fielder with Seiya Suzuki relegated to designated hitter duties for the time being. Infielder/outfielder Cody Bellinger is still a Cub, but he’s likely to be moved in a separate trade.
Cubs Deal for Astros Outfielder Kyle Tucker
Tucker, 27, stands out as one of the game’s top all-around players, showcasing an exciting blend of power, speed, and defensive skills. In 2022, he grabbed a Gold Glove Award for his exceptional performance in right field. However, his 2024 season took a hit when a foul ball caused a shin fracture, sidelining him for three months and interrupting what was to be a career year. The injury also prevented Tucker from earning his third consecutive All-Star Game selection.
Tucker will enter his walk year in 2025. Over seven major league seasons, he has compiled a .274/.353/.516 slash line with 125 home runs. Notably, his 2024 campaign featured a career-high 12.9% barrel rate. Tucker ranked in the 93rd percentile or higher in expected average (.292, 94th percentile) and expected slugging (.530, 93rd percentile). Since becoming a full-time player in 2020, Tucker has distinguished himself as one of the premier defensive right fielders, leading all players at the position with 35 defensive runs saved.
Tucker also brings plenty of postseason experience (64 games). Even though he is due for free agency following the 2025 season, he’s a prime candidate for a contract extension.
What the Astros Receive
Paredes, 25, joined the Cubs mid-season after being traded from the Tampa Bay Rays in July. He is now set to potentially fill the role at third base for the Astros, should Alex Bregman depart via free agency. Paredes’ hitting style, characterized by a pronounced pull approach, could be amplified by the inviting left-field dimensions at Minute Maid Park. In 2024, he launched 19 home runs while splitting time between the Rays and Cubs. Across his five major league seasons, Paredes has maintained a respectable .755 career OPS.
Wesneski, 27, has established himself as a versatile swingman, making 22 starts across 68 appearances for the Cubs. Over the last three seasons, he has maintained a respectable 3.93 ERA. Originally acquired by the Cubs from the New York Yankees at the 2022 trade deadline, Wesneski now appears poised to join the Astros.
Smith, 21, was the 14th pick in last year’s MLB Draft. He made headlines during his short debut, hitting home runs in six straight games for Single-A Myrtle Beach last August, hitting to a 1.004 OPS in his first pro ball action. Smith played third base in college at Florida State. He will immediately become the Astros top prospect.
Main Photo: © Erik Williams-Imagn Images
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