Chicago Cubs: Looking back on some of Theo Epstein’s best trades

On April 4th, 2012 under Theo Epstein, the Cubs claimed infielder Luis Valbuena off waivers from the Toronto Blue Jays. Valbuena, up until joining the Cubs, had been a sub-par bench player. There was potential power in the batter’s box on top of an already solid glove.

Valbuena hit only four homers while driving in 28 RBI in his first year as a Cub but quickly turned things around. As mentioned, his second year was much better. Hammering 12 home runs, 37 RBI while slashing .218/.331/.378.

After awhile, Luis took over third base. Those stats listed above were a career-high until he lashed out in 2014, launching 16 homers with 51 runs batted in. We all knew he was on borrowed time considering how quick Kris Bryant was expected to make his big league debut.

Acquiring Leadership

As for Straily, his impact with the Cubs wasn’t as good. Straily gave up a whopping 18 earned runs in 13 2/3 innings of work. Not exactly what Chicago was looking for at the time.

Either way, Houston was pleased enough with the two to part ways with center fielder, Dexter Fowler. Fowler made an immediate impact on this club, helping them reach the LCS and record 97-wins in his first year.

Dexter’s leadoff home run in Game 7 of the World Series helped spark this offense, opening the floodgates. And most of the time when Fowler got a hit to lead off a game, the Cubs would win.

This was no different. Now that his unfinished business in Chicago is over, Fowler signed a deal with the St. Louis Cardinals. We’ll always be thankful for what he helped this club accomplish. Clearly, one of Epstein’s greatest trades.