Cubs Snag Castellanos From Tigers For A Pair Of Righthanders

Image credit: Nick Castellanos (Photo by Mike McGinn/Getty Images)

The Cubs made a last-second deal on Wednesday to acquire Nick Castellanos from the Tigers. The move bolsters their lineup with a player who is a significant upgrade over some of their bench pieces, including Ian Happ. He’s also versatile enough to play both the infield and the outfield, with extensive experience at third base in the past. 

 

CUBS ACQUIRE

Nick Castellanos, OF
Age: 27

Castellanos hasn’t quite matched his stellar 2018 season, but he’s still performed well enough this year to be attractive at the deadline. The Cubs love versatile players, and the 27-year-old Castellanos fits the mold. He can play both the infield and the outfield, and has racked up an MLB-best 37 doubles this season. He’s slashing .347/.415/.611 against lefthanders, which will make him an especially attractive weapon against southpaws as the Cubs try to hang on to a postseason spot. He’s a free agent after the season.

TIGERS ACQUIRE

Paul Richan, RHP
Age: 22

The Cubs top pick from 2018, Richan has long established a rep as a command and control artist. He overhauled his body this offseason and gained a few ticks on his fastball as a result, now bringing his heater into the low 90s. He also boasts a potentially average slider and changeup, and scouts project him to have future plus control. He ranked as the Cubs’ No. 12 prospect in our midseason Top 30. 

Alex Lange, RHP
Age: 23

Lange, who was stellar at Louisiana State, has struggled with control and command in pro ball. That’s particularly true this season, when he’s walked more than four hitters per nine innings at both high Class A Myrtle Beach and Double-A Tennessee. His high-effort delivery means he probably profiles best in the bullpen, where his 93-94 mph fastball and pair of breaking pitches could play a little better. He ranked 21st on the Cubs’ midseason Top 30.