The Chicago Cubs have acquired promising infield prospect Michael Busch from the Los Angeles Dodgers in a trade. The Cubs also added right-handed pitcher Yency Almonte to strengthen their bullpen depth. In exchange, the Dodgers received minor league left-hander Jackson Ferris and outfielder Zyhir Hope.

Michael Busch, 26, was recognized as the Dodgers’ minor league player of the year in 2023. He showcased his offensive prowess in Triple-A Oklahoma City, hitting 27 home runs and driving in 90 runs over 98 games. Busch was named the Pacific Coast League MVP.

Busch made his major league debut in 2023, contributing with a .167 batting average, two home runs, and seven RBIs in 27 games. While he has demonstrated versatility in the infield and outfield, his primary position in the minor leagues has been second base.

Yency Almonte, a 29-year-old right-handed pitcher, brings experience and depth to the Cubs’ bullpen. He posted a 3-2 record with a 5.06 ERA in 49 relief appearances for the Dodgers last season. Almonte had an impressive streak of 15 outings during which he did not concede a run.

Almonte has a total of six major league seasons under his belt, split between the Colorado Rockies (2018-21) and the Dodgers. He brings a 7-6 record and a 4.51 ERA in 196 relief appearances.

In return, the Dodgers acquired two promising prospects from the Cubs. Jackson Ferris, a 19-year-old left-hander, was the Cubs’ second-round draft pick in 2022. He posted a 2-3 record with a 3.88 ERA in 18 starts for Single-A Myrtle Beach in 2023, accumulating 77 strikeouts in 56 innings.

Zyhir Hope, who will turn 19 on January 19, was an 11th-round draft pick by the Cubs. In 11 games for the Cubs’ Arizona Complex League club in 2023, Hope displayed his hitting abilities, with a .286 batting average, three home runs, and nine RBIs.