Cubs trade target: Jurickson Profar

The Cubs are said to want a middle infielder who can play shortstop, to back up Javier Baez while Addison Russell is out, or perhaps even replace Russell if Addy is traded.

So here’s a rumor for you:

Well now. Jurickson Profar was the No. 1 overall prospect in 2013 from three different sources: MLB.com, Baseball America and Baseball Prospectus. But he struggled in 84 big-league games that year (at age 20, I might add) and injuries and poor performance ruined his next two seasons.

He went back and forth between the Rangers and the minors for two more years and then had a breakout year with Texas in 2018 at age 25: .254/.335/.458, with 20 home runs, 54 walks and 10 stolen bases (no caught stealing). He played all over the diamond, mostly at shortstop and third base. His versatility in the field is something Joe Maddon and the Cubs prize, and he’s also a switch-hitter.

So what would it take to get Profar? As noted by Evan Grant above, the Rangers are also shopping Nomar Mazara. So why not start with Ian Happ as an offer? Fun fact: Profar, despite seemingly being around forever, is only 18 months older than Happ. Profar’s presence on the roster, since he can also play the outfield, would make Happ superfluous.

The Cubs would probably have to toss in a prospect along with Happ to make that deal. Profar, per MLB Trade Rumors, is estimated to get about $3.4 million in arbitration this year, and he’s under team control through 2020.

Would you do that? Happ and a prospect for Profar? I would. Or perhaps you have another suggestion. Have at it.