The Chicago Cubs approached the 2024 MLB trade deadline in a unique position, neither fully in the playoff race nor completely out of it. Instead of pursuing a big-name player, they executed a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays, sending Christopher Morel in exchange for Isaac Paredes.

Paredes, who had a promising start with the Rays, struggled after joining the Cubs. Despite a strong first half that earned him an All-Star selection, his performance dipped. With top prospect Matt Shaw waiting in the wings, the Cubs must decide how to utilize Paredes moving forward.