Cubs make splash with deal for Candelario

The Cubs introduced themselves as patrons on Monday by agreeing to a cope with the Nationals for infielder Jeimer Candelario in trade for Chicago’s No. 14 prospect, shortstop Kevin Made, and No. 16 prospect, left-handed pitcher DJ Herz.

Candelario, who debuted the Cubs in 2016 earlier than being traded to the Tigers the next 12 months, was the Nationals’ prime commerce candidate this season. He is on an expiring contract price $5 million, which he signed in November. In current years, the Nationals have accomplished comparable offers to amass prospects and youthful gamers as they construct towards the long run.

Candelario, 29, is having a standout 12 months after being non-tendered by the Tigers within the offseason. He is slashing .258/.342/.481 with 30 doubles. With that, he leads all National League third basemen in doubles, and he ranks within the prime 5 in a number of classes, together with slugging share, OPS and Outs Above Average.

Candelario additionally brings a beneficial clubhouse presence. He instantly embraced the function of veteran chief on the Nationals, and he has been lauded for serving to teammates by way of his interactions and play on the sector. Said supervisor Dave Martinez, who labored with Candelario when he was a rookie on the Cubs, “He leads by instance … If you’re a younger man and I’m watching that man, I’m going to do the identical factor. … He’s exhibiting these younger children the right way to play the sport.”