The Chicago Cubs understand that they sorely need a third baseman to improve their infield. However, time is not on their side. Alex Bregman to the Cubs is simply a long shot right now. As a result, the Cubs should focus on the trade market. The Pittsburgh Pirates have a glut of infielders after allegedly signing Adam Frazier on Tuesday morning.
While the Pirates are unlikely to trade directly with a division competitor to improve their club, they may be prepared to do so if a third team is involved. Enter the Philadelphia Phillies, who have been the subject of trade speculations all offseason.
The Phillies were seeking for starting pitchers, and this could be the transaction that gives them some depth. Here is what a three-team trade could look like among 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, Bohm would provide a significant upgrade at third base. In 2024, Bohm hit.280 with 15 home runs and 97 RBIs for the Phillies. Falter would provide depth for the back half of the rotation or as lengthy relief in the bullpen.
The Philadelphia Phillies would bring Hayes across Pennsylvania as compensation for losing Bohm. Hayes struggled offensively in 2024, but he consistently offers Gold Glove-caliber defense. Adding Taillon would alleviate some of the Phillies’ rotation issues. Finally, the Pirates would obtain Marsh, who would immediately take one of the two corner outfield positions opposite Oneil Cruz, with Bryan Reynolds.
Acquiring Keegan Thompson would help Pittsburgh improve its bullpen, which was terrible in 2024. This move would, to put it mildly, upset the baseball world. 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.