MLB Trade Rumors: Rays star infielder Isaac Paredes could be on the trade block, per report
Tampa Bay Rays infielder Isaac Paredes made the first All-Star appearance of his major league career on Tuesday at Globe Life Field. Although the Rays have had a poor season in 2024, Paredes has been a standout performer.
He was the sole member of his team selected for the 2024 MLB All-Star Game, becoming the 38th Rays player to represent them in the AL All-Star team.
Considering Isaac Paredes’s achievements this season, from being an All-Star to his on-field stats, he could become a valuable trade chip for the team before the trade deadline on July 30.
According to SNY's Andy Martino, the Tampa Bay Rays are willing to consider trade offers for their third baseman and are considered active players ahead of the 2024 trade deadline. Tampa Bay is known for making bold moves, even if it means trading away some of their best players.
“It’s not in my mind,” Isaac Paredes said through an interpreter [via MLB.com]. “I don’t control it. The team will make a decision, and we’ll see what happens.”
Before the All-Star break this season, Paredes had 15 home runs, 50 RBIs, a .261 batting average and a .823 OPS in 91 games played. The Rays currently have a .500 winning percentage (48-48) and are ranked fourth in the AL East.
The club acquired Paredes through a trade with the Detroit Tigers in 2022 in exchange for outfielder Austin Meadows.
Isaac Paredes discusses first All-Star game selection of his career
The 2024 All-Star Game ended with the AL All-Stars securing a 5-3 victory over the NL All-Stars. Discussing his selection in the event, Paredes said through interpreter Manny Navarro (via ABC Action News):
“There’s a first time for everything, this is the first time for me. It will be a learning experience for me. I’ll embrace it.
“A lot of emotion. Cash told us in front of everyone. It is just something you try to keep under control. But it’s something where you feel like you’re in two different bodies," he added.
While facing Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cristopher Sanchez in the All-Star game, Isaac Paredes hit a ground ball in his only at-bat of the game.