(Chicago) The Chicago Cubs have acquired star outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros, but the price to pay was high, according to what the Associated Press learned from a person familiar with the matter.
This source requested anonymity because the transaction is conditional on all players involved successfully passing medical examinations.
The Cubs had to give up third baseman Isaac Paredes, right-hander Hayden Wesneski, and Cam Smith, one of their top infield prospects, to get Tucker, who will be eligible for free agency after the next Series. worldwide.
Tucker was limited to 78 games last season due to a broken right tibia, but he still averaged .289/.498/.585 with 23 homers and 49 RBIs. He hit .284/.369/.517 in 2023, producing 112 runs, a record in the American, in addition to stealing 30 bases and hitting 29 home runs.
The one who will turn 28 in January joins a congested outfield in Chicago, where the Cubs are counting on Cody Bellinger, whom they would try to trade. The team has also reportedly canvassed Seiya Suzuki’s agent, who has a no-trade clause.
Paredes could be an option for the Astros at third bag if Alex Bregman leaves on the free agent market. Paredes, 25, hit just .238 last season, but had 19 homers and 80 RBIs in 153 games.
Wesneski, a Houston native, is expected to compete for a spot in the Astros’ rotation. The 27-year-old gunner has compiled a 3-6 record and a 3.86 GAA in 21 relief appearances in 2024. His name was placed on the injured list from July 20 to September 20 due to a injury to the right forearm.
Smith, 21, was selected 14e in total at the last draft. He finished the season at AA level. He hit .313 with seven home runs and 24 RBIs in 24 games spanning three levels.
