The Cubs announced themselves as buyers on Monday by agreeing to a deal with the Nationals for infielder Jeimer Candelario in exchange 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 before being traded to the Tigers the following year, was the Nationals’ top trade candidate this season. He is on an expiring contract worth $5 million, which he signed in November. In recent years, the Nationals have completed similar deals to acquire prospects and younger players as they build toward the future.
Candelario, 29, is having a standout year after being non-tendered by the Tigers in 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 in the top five in several categories, including slugging percentage, OPS and Outs Above Average.
Candelario also brings a valuable clubhouse presence. He immediately embraced the role of veteran leader on the Nationals, and he has been lauded for helping teammates through his interactions and play on the field. Said manager Dave Martinez, who worked with Candelario when he was a rookie on the Cubs, “He leads by example … If you’re a young guy and I’m watching that guy, I’m going to do the same thing. … He’s showing these young kids how to play the game.”