North Side Shockwave: Chicago Cubs Land Angels Veteran Star Yoán Moncada in Stunning Trade That Sends Wrigleyville Into a Frenzy
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the baseball world and electrified the North Side of Chicago, the Cubs have pulled off a stunning trade to acquire veteran third baseman Yoán Moncada from the Los Angeles Angels. The blockbuster deal, confirmed early Thursday morning, brings a proven star to Wrigley Field and signals that the Cubs are all-in on contending in the 2025 season.
Moncada, 29, has had a rollercoaster career but remains one of the most dynamic infielders in the game when healthy. Known for his slick glove, switch-hitting power, and leadership presence, Moncada is expected to bring stability and veteran experience to a Cubs infield that has struggled with consistency.
The trade cost was steep, as the Cubs sent a package of top prospects to the Angels, including highly touted outfielder Owen Caissie and right-handed pitcher Cade Horton. While giving up young talent is always a risk, Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer made it clear that the team is focused on winning now.
“This is a move for our players, our fans, and our future,” Hoyer said during a press conference at Wrigley Field. “Yoán is a competitor and a leader, and we believe he’ll thrive in Chicago. We didn’t make this decision lightly, but we feel strongly that he completes our lineup in a big way.”
The reaction across Wrigleyville has been electric. Cubs fans packed local bars and social media feeds exploded with excitement and debate. For many, the trade is reminiscent of the club’s aggressive moves leading up to their 2016 World Series run — a sign that the front office once again believes the time is now.
Moncada’s contract runs through 2026, giving the Cubs at least two full seasons with him at the hot corner. After battling injuries the past few years, he rebounded in 2024 with a .271 batting average, 21 home runs, and elite defensive metrics, re-establishing himself as a valuable asset on both sides of the ball.
Teammates have already welcomed the addition, with shortstop Dansby Swanson calling the move “a game-changer.”
“We’ve got something special brewing here,” Swanson said. “Adding a guy like Moncada — who’s been through the wars, who knows how to win — that’s only going to make us better.”
The Angels, meanwhile, appear to be pivoting toward a full rebuild, stockpiling young talent in hopes of reshaping their future. For them, this trade marks the end of an era — and for the Cubs, the possible start of another.
As spring rolls into summer and the NL Central heats up, all eyes will be on Wrigley Field. With Yoán Moncada suiting up in Cubbie blue, the North Side faithful have every reason to believe that October baseball could be within reach once again.
