The Chicago Cubs, having traded away their starting third baseman Isaac Paredes and prospect Cam Smith in a deal for outfielder Kyle Tucker, find themselves in need of a replacement at the hot corner. While star third baseman Alex Bregman looms large over the free agent market, his likely high price tag makes him an unrealistic target for the Cubs. Instead, they’ve turned their attention to a more affordable, albeit riskier, option: Yoan Moncada, recently a free agent after an eight-year stint with the crosstown Chicago White Sox.
Moncada, 29, presents a classic buy-low opportunity. Once a highly touted prospect, his career trajectory has been hampered by injuries over the past three seasons. A back ailment limited him to 92 games in 2023, an adductor injury restricted him to a mere 12 games in 2024, and hamstring and oblique issues curtailed his 2022 season to 104 games. These recurring health problems have significantly depressed his market value, making him a potentially cost-effective acquisition for a team willing to gamble on his regaining his prior form. The Cubs, along with the Seattle Mariners and Toronto Blue Jays, are reportedly interested in Moncada, intrigued by the potential upside he offers.
The ripple effects of Alex Bregman’s free agency are clearly being felt throughout the third base market. Teams are hesitant to make significant moves until Bregman’s destination is determined, as his decision will influence the availability and cost of other free agents. This waiting game has created an opportunity for clubs like the Cubs to potentially snag a player like Moncada at a discounted price. If Moncada can stay healthy, he could provide significant value, even if he doesn’t reach his full pre-injury potential. His 2021 season, where he slashed .263/.375/.412 with 14 home runs and 61 RBIs, offers a glimpse of what he’s capable of when healthy.
The Cubs’ interest in Moncada stems from a series of transactions that have depleted their third base depth. Beyond Paredes and Smith, the Cubs also traded Christopher Morel to the Tampa Bay Rays and saw Patrick Wisdom sign with a Korean team. This leaves a gaping hole at third base, a hole that Moncada could potentially fill. His switch-hitting ability and potential for power would be welcome additions to the Cubs’ lineup. However, the risk remains that his injury history will continue to plague him, leaving the Cubs searching for another solution.
The Mariners and Blue Jays also find themselves with needs at third base, further fueling their interest in Moncada. Seattle allowed their 2024 primary third baseman, Josh Rojas, to walk in free agency, and while they’ve been linked to veteran Justin Turner, no agreement has been reached. The Blue Jays, meanwhile, could see Moncada as an upgrade over Ernie Clement, potentially relegating Clement to a utility role. Both teams, like the Cubs, are likely waiting for the Bregman domino to fall before making any definitive moves. Bregman himself has been linked to Toronto, adding another layer of complexity to the situation.
In essence, Yoan Moncada represents a high-risk, high-reward proposition for any team willing to take a chance on him. His injury history is a major concern, but his potential, when healthy, is undeniable. The Cubs, Mariners, and Blue Jays, all in need of a third baseman, are keeping a close eye on Moncada, intrigued by the possibility of acquiring a talented player at a bargain price. However, the ultimate decision may hinge on the market dynamics created by Alex Bregman’s free agency, a situation that continues to hold the third base market in suspense. Ultimately, Moncada’s next destination, and his ability to finally shake off his injury woes, will determine whether he can fulfill his once-promising potential.
