When the Cubs acquired Isaac Paredes in a trade that sent a jolt of excitement through the fanbase, the expectations were sky-high. Paredes, a former top prospect with a mix of power and defensive versatility, was seen as a potential cornerstone for the Cubs’ infield. However, as the 2024 season unfolds, the reality has been less than inspiring.
Cubs’ Newly Acquired Third Baseman Has Not Lived Up To Expectations
Paredes’ Performance At The Plate
Paredes came to the Cubs with a reputation for his plate discipline and ability to hit for power despite his small stature. His 2023 season with the Tampa Bay Rays showcased his potential. He hit 31 home runs and a .250 average, making him a breakout star. But since donning the Cubs’ pinstripes, his offensive production has stalled.
Paredes has struggled to find his rhythm at the plate through his first few months on the North Side. His batting average has dipped much below the Mendoza Line in his time with the Cubs. He was hovering around .150. His power numbers have taken a nosedive, with only 18 home runs by mid-August. The alarming uptick in strikeouts has also raised eyebrows, as Paredes has fanned over 80 times in just 110 games. This is a sharp contrast to the disciplined approach he was known for in Tampa last season.
Defensive Struggles
While Paredes was never touted as a Gold Glove-caliber defender, his versatility and sure-handedness were supposed to solidify the Cubs’ infield. Unfortunately, the defensive metrics tell a different story. Paredes has committed 4 errors at third base, leading to an unsightly .905 fielding percentage, which ranks near the bottom among qualified third basemen. His range has also been a concern, as his Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) is in the negative, indicating he’s been a liability rather than an asset at the hot corner.
The Pressure Of Expectations
Part of Paredes’ struggles could be attributed to the pressure of living up to the expectations placed on him. Being the centerpiece of a deal often comes with heightened scrutiny. Paredes has not yet shown the ability to thrive under that microscope in Chicago.
The adjustment to a new league and the challenges of playing at Wrigley Field, with its unique wind patterns and the intense atmosphere, may have also played a role in his underperformance. He said yesterday, “I don’t feel good. I feel lost out there.” As inconvenient as they may be, these factors don’t fully excuse the steep drop-off in his production.
Looking Ahead
The Cubs’ front office is undoubtedly aware that Paredes’ performance has been below expectations. They likely remain hopeful that he can turn it around. Paredes is still young, and his track record suggests that he has the talent to bounce back. However, the clock is ticking. If the Cubs are to make a push for the postseason, they need Paredes to step up in a big way.
Cubs fans are known for their patience, but even the most optimistic among them have begun to voice their concerns. As the season enters its final stretch, the pressure on Paredes will only intensify. Whether he can rise to the occasion or continue to falter could have significant implications for the Cubs’ playoff hopes and his future in Chicago.
In the end, Paredes’ story with the Cubs is still being written. But as of now, the chapter titled “Expectations” remains largely unfulfilled.
Main Photo Credits: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
