The Chicago Cubs know they desperately need a third baseman to upgrade their infield. But time is not on their side.
Alex Bregman going to the Cubs is simply a long shot now. As a result, the Cubs should be looking toward the trade market.
The Pittsburgh Pirates have a logjam of infielders after reportedly signing Adam Frazier Tuesday morning. While the Pirates won’t directly trade with a division rival to make them better, they could be willing to make the deal if a third team is involved.
Enter the Philadelphia Phillies, who have been involved in trade rumors all offseason. The Phillies were looking to acquire starting pitching, and this could be the deal that gets them some depth.
Here is what a three-team trade could look like between them:
- Chicago Cubs acquire: 3B Alec Bohm, SP Bailey Falter
- Philadelphia Phillies acquire: 3B Ke’Bryan Hayes, SP Jameson Taillon
- Pittsburgh Pirates acquire: OF Brandon Marsh, RP Keegan Thompson
Starting with the Chicago Cubs, they would get a major upgrade at third base in Bohm. Bohm hit .280 with 15 home runs and 97 RBI in 2024 with the Phillies. Falter would provide them with depth to use in the back end of the rotation or as long relief in the bullpen.
The Philadelphia Phillies would bring Hayes across the state of Pennsylvania as collateral for losing Bohm. Hayes struggled at the plate in 2024, but he produces Gold-Glove-caliber defense on a yearly basis. Adding Taillon would address some of the Phillies rotation concerns.
Lastly, the Pirates would receive Marsh, who would instantly slot into one of the two corner outfield spots with Bryan Reynolds on the other side of Oneil Cruz. Acquiring Keegan Thompson would help Pittsburgh rectify the bullpen after it was abysmal in 2024.
This trade would shock the baseball world to say the least. However, it is crazy enough that a big move such as this one could very well happen even with less than 30 days before spring training begins.
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