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  • Why the Kyle Tucker Trade Was ‘The Toughest Call’ for Astros GM?

    Why the Kyle Tucker Trade Was ‘The Toughest Call’ for Astros GM?

    The Houston Astros made the biggest move of the MLB offseason by trading Kyle Tucker, their three-time All-Star right fielder, to the Chicago Cubs. It was a tough decision but Astros general manager Dana Brown said it was part of the plan to win now and build for the future. Here’s why Tucker was traded and what the Astros got back.

    The Decision to Trade Kyle Tucker

    Trading Tucker wasn’t easy for Dana Brown who called it “the hardest thing” he’s done since becoming the Astros’ GM in January 2023. But the opportunity to rebuild the roster and build for the future was too good to pass up.

    “It was very difficult [to trade Tucker], but we saw an opportunity there to be good in the future and build toward the future,” Brown said on Foul Territory with former MLB catcher A.J. Pierzynski.

    Tucker is a short term asset and becoming a free agent after the 2025 season. The Astros weren’t going to sign him to a $300 million plus extension so trading him before his walk year made sense. It allowed the Astros to get younger cost controlled talent that fits the long term vision.

    What the Astros Gained in the Trade

    In return for Tucker the Astros got three players: third baseman Isaac Paredes, starting pitcher Hayden Wesneski, and top prospect Cam Smith. Each brings something different to the table:

    1. Isaac Paredes: A Utility Bat

    Paredes has already shown flashes of his potential this spring, hitting .300 with a home run yanked over the left-field fence at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches. He can play multiple infield positions and adds depth to the lineup.

    2. Hayden Wesneski: A Reliable Arm

    Wesneski has been impressive on the mound, striking out six batters and allowing one run across four innings in two separate appearances. He’ll be a good member of the 2025 staff.

    3. Cam Smith: The Future Star

    Smith is the headliner of the trade and has been the buzz in camp. The Florida State product and 2024 1st round pick has 2 HR and 1 3B in 7 at-bats . He won’t impact 2025 but should be a cornerstone of the franchise in 2026 and beyond.

    The Financial Advantage

    Beyond getting talent, the trade also brought financial benefits to the Astros. By trading Tucker—a soon to be free agent—the team got over a decade of cheap contracts:

    • Isaac Paredes: Under control until 2027
    • Hayden Wesneski: Under control until 2027
    • Cam Smith: Under control until at least 2029

    “You get 14 years of control for one year of control,” Brown said, pointing out the value of getting players with extended control.

    This allows Houston to be competitive and still not break the bank and not have to sign star players to giant contracts.

    The Emotional Hit to Fans

    For Astros fans, watching Tucker leave is gonna hurt. He was a cornerstone of the franchise, contributed offensively and defensively. Tucker could very well finish top 5 in MVP in 2025—this time in the National League—which will just sting even more for Houston fans.

    And to make it worse, Tucker isn’t the only former cornerstone leaving this winter. The Astros have lost several key pieces and fans are wondering what’s the direction of the team. But Brown says the moves were necessary for long term success.

    Spring Training Notes

    So far the new guys are making a good impression in spring training:

    • Paredes is showing power and consistency at the plate.
    • Wesneski is showing command and effectiveness on the mound.
    • Smith is electrifying the clubhouse with his talent and potential.

    This is good news the trade will pay off sooner rather than later.

  • Chicago Cubs Announce Spring Breakout Prospects: Who’s Ready to Shine?

    Chicago Cubs Announce Spring Breakout Prospects: Who’s Ready to Shine?

    MLB has released the rosters for this year’s Spring Breakout games and the Chicago Cubs will play two games. They face the Dodgers on March 13 and the Angels on March 15 . These games are a great chance to see some of the organization’s top prospects while the big club gets ready for the Tokyo Series in Japan.

    A Balanced Mix of Prospects and Newcomers

    The Cubs’ Spring Breakout roster is a mix of established prospects and recent draftees. But a few are absent:

    • Matt Shaw: Likely being held back due to big-league expectations.
    • Owen Caissie: Currently sidelined with an injury.
    • Jefferson Rojas: His status remains a mystery—fans are left wondering if he’s okay.

    The roster is subject to change but it already has some names Cubs fans will want to keep an eye on.

    Cade Horton is Back

    One of the biggest things to come out of the roster is Cade Horton . His name being on the list means everything the Cubs have been saying is true: Horton is 100% healthy and ready to go.

    He’s especially good news because:

    • Reports had his velocity looking strong in bullpens.
    • This official confirmation puts to rest any health concerns.

    Horton isn’t behind schedule compared to other pitching prospects which is good for his development going into the season.

    More Pitchers to Come

    Right now there are only 5 pitchers on the roster, that’s an unusually low number for 2 games. I would bet the Cubs will add more arms as we get closer to game time. Here’s why:

    1. Players Staying Behind from Japan: If pitchers like Kevin Alcántara are staying in Arizona instead of going to Japan, they could easily be added to the Spring Breakout roster.
    2. Game Readiness: The Cubs might wait until closer to the games to finalize their pitching staff based on who’s performing well in practice sessions and simulated games.

    This gives them the best possible group for these important development games.

    Chicago Cubs Spring Breakout Prospect Rosters Announced

    2024 Draft Picks Make Their Debut

    It’s always fun to see newly drafted players in competitive games and the Cubs have a few of their 2024 draft picks:

    • Cole Mathis (2nd Round)
    • Ronny Cruz (3rd Round)
    • Ty Southisene (4th Round)
    • Ariel Armas (5th Round)
    • Ivan Brethowr (7th Round)

    These young guys are the future of the organization and being in the Spring Breakout games shows the Cubs are committed to getting them early experience.

    Why You Should Be Excited

    The Spring Breakout games aren’t just exhibition games, they’re a chance to see tomorrow’s stars today. Whether it’s Cade Horton dominating on the mound or the 2024 draft class performing under pressure, these games are a sneak peek at the next wave of Cubs talent.

    For fans that can’t make it to Japan for the Tokyo Series, these games are the perfect way to stay engaged with the future.

  • Seiya Suzuki’s Performance Could Decide the Cubs’ Final Roster Spots

    Seiya Suzuki’s Performance Could Decide the Cubs’ Final Roster Spots

    The Cubs are down to the wire as they finalize their 26-man roster for Opening Day. The battle for the final spot is getting intense between third baseman Gage Workman and utility man Vidal Bruján. And to make things even more interesting, both players could be gone if they don’t make the roster. Here’s the situation and how Seiya Suzuki might factor into it.

    The Situation with Gage Workman

    Workman, acquired via the Rule 5 draft, comes with strings attached. If he doesn’t make the Cubs’ Opening Day roster, the team has to offer him back to the Detroit Tigers. But there’s a workaround: the Cubs could negotiate a trade with the Tigers to get full rights to Workman. Under this scenario, Workman—who has yet to debut—gets all three of his minor league options back, giving the Cubs more flexibility.

    Despite all the complexities, Workman has looked good in spring training. Manager Craig Counsell raved about him, saying he’s shown power from the left side, good plate discipline and strong defense.

    “He’s a left-handed bat with some power, good plate discipline and a good defender,” Counsell said. “He’s shown all three of those things in a small sample. That’s hard to do.”

    Workman’s ability to do so has made the decision even tougher for the front office.

    The Case for Vidal Bruján

    On the other hand, Vidal Bruján brings huge value to the roster. He’s a utility guy who can play every position except catcher. That’s a huge asset for a team like the Cubs who pride themselves on flexibility.

    Bruján is out of minor league options, so if he doesn’t make the Opening Day roster, the Cubs would lose him on waivers. Given the Cubs traded Matt Mervis for him from the Miami Marlins, it’s unlikely they’d trade him away so soon.

    Right now Bruján is slotted in as the backup to center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong. But Counsell has been experimenting with lineups lately and that might open the door for Workman.

    Seiya Suzuki’s Role in the Decision

    One of the complications is Seiya Suzuki’s center field role. If the Cubs decide to keep Workman over Bruján, they’ll need a center field backup. While Suzuki has played in the outfield, relying on him in center field – even sparingly – feels like a risk for a team that’s built to win on the margins.

    “Depending on Suzuki in center field feels like an unnecessary risk,” one analyst said. “And an infielder who hasn’t played above Double-A shouldn’t warrant that kind of roster gymnastics.”

    But Counsell has been playing Suzuki in center and left field during Cactus League and if this keeps up, it could be a sign the tide is shifting towards keeping Workman.

    FAQs About the Cubs’ Final Roster Spot Battle

    Who is in the battle for the Cubs’ final roster spot?

    The battle is primarily between Gage Workman, a Rule 5 draftee, and Vidal Bruján, a versatile utility player.

    Why is this so complicated?

    If Workman doesn’t make the Opening Day roster, the Cubs have to offer him back to the Detroit Tigers due to Rule 5 draft rules. Meanwhile Bruján is out of minor-league options so if he doesn’t make the team he can be lost on waivers.

    What are Gage Workman’s strengths?

    Workman has impressed with his left-handed power, plate discipline and defense in spring training. Counsell has even given him praise.

    Why might the Cubs like Vidal Bruján?

    Bruján is versatile – he can play almost every position except catcher – and the Cubs traded for him so they must see long term potential.

    How does Seiya Suzuki factor in?

    If the Cubs keep Workman they’ll need a center field backup. Suzuki has been playing center field in spring training but relying on him there feels like a risk.

  • Is This the Cubs’ Best Opening Day Lineup? Here’s What Fans Think

    Is This the Cubs’ Best Opening Day Lineup? Here’s What Fans Think

    The Cubs are gearing up for the season opener in Tokyo against the Los Angeles Dodgers and today’s spring training lineup might be a sneak peek of what’s to come. With Shota Imanaga already confirmed as the starter and Nico Hoerner sitting out the trip, the Cubs have a plan. Let’s break down the proposed lineup and what it means.

    Cubs Lineup for Tokyo

    Here’s how the Cubs will line up in Japan:

    • Ian Happ – LF
    • Kyle Tucker – DH
    • Seiya Suzuki – RF
    • Michael Busch – 1B
    • Matt Shaw – 3B
    • Dansby Swanson – SS
    • Pete Crow-Armstrong – CF
    • Miguel Amaya – C
    • Jon Berti – 2B

    Pitching Matchup:

    Cubs: Shota Imanaga , LHP

    This lineup gives us a glimpse into the Cubs plans for Tokyo and some early season strategy.

    Takeaways from the Lineup

    Matt Shaw’s Spot in the Order

    If Matt Shaw is ready to go—and he looks to be—and he could bat as high as 5th in the order in Tokyo. That might seem aggressive but Craig Counsell has his reasons. Maybe Shaw was placed high to get him extra at-bats after being late to spring due to an oblique injury. But once the Cubs get back to the States, expect Shaw to drop lower in the order, probably behind Pete Crow-Armstrong or 9th if Nico Hoerner returns.

    Jon Berti at 2nd

    With Nico Hoerner out of the picture for Tokyo, Jon Berti is the obvious choice to play 2nd. Matt Shaw could theoretically slide over to 2nd and Justin Turner play 3rd but keeping Shaw at 3rd makes more sense given his defensive development and long term role on the team. Plus Berti’s versatility and experience makes him a safe bet for these two games.

    Kyle Tucker and Seiya Suzuki positions

    Also worth noting is Kyle Tucker and Seiya Suzuki’s positions are reversed from what we’ll see during the regular season. Tucker will play RF and Suzuki will DH in Tokyo. Once the regular season starts, Tucker will go back to DH and Suzuki will play the outfield more.

    San Diego Padres’ Lineup

    To provide context, here’s the Padres’ projected lineup for their matchup against the Cubs:

    • Eguy Rosario – 3B
    • Gavin Sheets – DH
    • Connor Joe – LF
    • Oscar Gonzalez – RF
    • Luis Campusano – C
    • Trenton Brooks – 1B
    • Brandon Lockridge – CF
    • Clay Dungan – 2B
    • Mason McCoy – SS

    Pitching Matchup:

    • Padres : Matt Waldron (RHP)

    Broadcast Information

    • Game Time: 2:05 pm CT
    • Teams: Chicago Cubs (8-2-3) vs San Diego Padres (3-7)
    • How to Watch: Tune in to Marquee Sports Network for live coverage of the game.

    What Do You Think?

    If this is the lineup they go with in Tokyo what do you think? Here’s what fans are saying:

    • Pros: Power and speed with Tucker, Suzuki and Swanson
    • Cons: Shaw batting 5th? No Hoerner at 2nd?

    Overall it’s fine but we’ll see when it matters.

  • Who Will Top the Cubs’ Power Rankings? New Star Projected to Lead in Homers

    Who Will Top the Cubs’ Power Rankings? New Star Projected to Lead in Homers

    As the Cubs get ready to kick off the season in Japan, the buzz is building around their newest guy Kyle Tucker. Traded from the Houston Astros, Tucker is supposed to bring the power the Cubs have been missing for years. According to Andrew Simon of MLB.com, Tucker is projected to hit 31 homers in 2025, which would end the Cubs’ 5 year drought of not having a 30 homer guy.

    Why Kyle Tucker is the Cubs’ Missing Piece

    The Cubs have been looking for a power hitter since Kris Bryant hit 30 in 2019. Last year Ian Happ led the team with 25 homers, so clearly they need a real slugger. Tucker, a former Astros star, is that guy.

    At 28 years old, Tucker is in his prime and has already shown he can bring power and consistency. Over the last 4 years he’s been a mainstay in the Astros lineup, hitting 30 homers twice and 29 in 2023. Even in an injury shortened 2024 season he hit .289/ .408/ .585 with 23 homers and 39 RBI in 78 games.

    What Makes Kyle Tucker Special?

    Tucker isn’t a home run hitter—he’s a threat. Over the last 4 seasons he’s been the epitome of consistency in the middle of the Astros’ order. Even with only 78 games in 2024, he put up some nice numbers:

    • Batting Average: .289
    • On-Base Percentage: .408
    • Slugging Percentage: .585
    • Home Runs: 23
    • RBIs: 39

    If he had played a full season his home run total could have easily been 40. He generates power while getting on base, that’s a perfect fit for the Cubs.

    Andrew Simon of MLB.com has Tucker projected to hit 31 home runs in 2025. That seems about right but he could do more. In the first half of 2024 he showed signs of unlocking a new level of power in his swing.

    Can Tucker End the Cubs’ Home Run Drought?

    The Cubs haven’t had a player hit 30 or more home runs since 2019 when Kris Bryant did it. With Tucker now on board that streak should end. At 28 years old he’s just entering his prime and his left handed bat should thrive at Wrigley Field which is hitter friendly.

    As long as Tucker stays healthy he has the tools to not only lead the Cubs in home runs but be one of the most feared hitters in the National League.

  • Chicago Cubs Release Five Players, Including Pitcher from Bellinger Trade

    Chicago Cubs Release Five Players, Including Pitcher from Bellinger Trade

    The Cubs are gearing up for their March 18 opener in Japan and need to get their roster finalized before most other teams. As part of that, the Cubs made their first cuts on Saturday and sent five pitchers to minor league camp. One of them was Cody Poteet, the guy we got in the Cody Bellinger trade, so he won’t break camp with the big club.

    The Players Cut from Cubs’ Major League Camp

    According to Bleacher Nation‘s Brett Taylor, the Cubs sent the following five pitchers to minor league camp on Saturday:

    • Caleb Kilian
    • Cody Poteet
    • Jack Neely
    • Gavin Hollowell
    • Riley Martin

    None of these moves are a surprise. Riley Martin hasn’t entered his options years yet so he was always going to the minor league. The other four—Kilian, Poteet, Neely, and Hollowell—are all on the 40-man roster with options so the Cubs can send them down without exposing them to waivers.

    Why Cody Poteet’s Cut Stands Out?

    Poteet, acquired in the trade that sent Cody Bellinger to the Dodgers, won’t make the team out of camp this spring. A 4th round pick in 2015, Poteet took his time getting to the bigs, debuting in 2021 as a starter. He moved to relief in 2022 and then had Tommy John surgery soon after and missed all of 2023.

    He’s back in 2024 with the Yankees and has a 2.22 ERA and 188 ERA+ in 5 appearances (4 starts). Despite his solid season last year the Cubs view him as AAA depth for now. Taylor says Poteet will be in the Iowa rotation and will be ready to fill in if the big team gets hit with injuries.

    Caleb Kilian: Still Seen as Starting Depth

    Caleb Kilian, once a top prospect, is headed to Triple-A. Despite being out of options, the Cubs aren’t considering converting him to the bullpen. He’ll be starting depth, waiting in the wings in case of injury or need.

    Jack Neely and Gavin Hollowell: Future Bullpen Pieces

    Jack Neely and Gavin Hollowell are the Cubs’ top relief prospects. Both will be in the mix later this season or beyond as veteran arms depart next offseason. For now they’ll keep developing in the minors, getting occasional call-ups to the bigs until they can stick for an extended period.

    What This Means for the Roster?

    Narrowing Down the Active Roster

    These moves mean the Cubs are focusing on their Opening Day roster. With just weeks until the Japan opener, they’re prioritizing players who can help now and keeping developmental pieces like Neely and Hollowell around for spot duty.

    Starting Rotation and Bullpen Clarification

    The Cubs keeping Poteet and Kilian in the minors means they like their current rotation and bullpen depth. But both are insurance policies in case of injuries during the long MLB season.

  • Who’s on the Hot Seat? Every Cubs Player Out of Options Heading into 2025

    Who’s on the Hot Seat? Every Cubs Player Out of Options Heading into 2025

    As the Chicago Cubs head into the 2025 season, one of the biggest questions of roster management is who is out of minor-league options. This can impact who makes the Opening Day roster and who might be threatened with designation for assignment. With injuries to Nico Hoerner and Matt Shaw, the front office is paying close attention to the contract status of the players fighting for the bottom of the roster spots.

    What Does It Mean to Be Out of Options?

    When a player is out of options, it means they can’t be sent to the minors without being exposed to waivers. This puts pressure on the team to either keep the player on the big league roster or lose them to someone else. For the Cubs, this adds another layer of complexity as they finalize their 2025 roster.

    Gage Workman: A Rule 5 Draft Standout

    One of the hottest names this spring is infielder Gage Workman. The Cubs Rule 5 draft pick has looked good in spring training and is making a strong case to be on the Opening Day roster. But Rule 5 rules require him to be on the big league roster all season or the Cubs have to return him to the Tigers. The Cubs could also negotiate a trade with the Tigers to keep Workman’s rights and he’d get standard minor league options.

    Full List of Cubs Players Out of Options for 2025

    Here’s a breakdown of every Chicago Cubs player with less than five years of service time who is out of minor-league options for the 2025 season:

    Miguel Amaya, Catcher

    2025 is a big year for Miguel Amaya. After a strong second half in 2024, the Cubs may not see him as their everyday catcher. Carson Kelly will still spell him against lefties, but Amaya gets a chance to prove he’s the long term answer behind the plate.

    Vidal Bruján, Utility Infielder

    Acquired from the Marlins for Matt Mervis, Vidal Bruján is in the mix for the last bench spot. He’s utility and speed are valuable, but he’ll need to outperform Gage Workman and Nicky Lopez to make the team.

    Julian Merryweather, RHP

    Injuries limited Julian Merryweather in 2024 but he was a high leverage reliever for the Cubs in 2023. With a new bullpen featuring Eli Morgan, Ryan Pressly and Ryan Brasier, Merryweather will need to stay healthy and effective to make the roster.

    Tyson Miller, RHP

    Tyson Miller was a bright spot in the pen last year with a 2.15 ERA in 49 appearances. He’s going to be a key piece for the bullpen in 2025.

    Justin Steele, LHP

    Justin Steele is the ace of the rotation so there’s no way the Cubs would option him.

    Keegan Thompson, RHP

    Keegan’s future with the Cubs is uncertain. He was 2.67 in 24 appearances last year but his command is still an issue (14.2% walk rate) so he’s a likely candidate to be designated if the Cubs need to clear a roster spot.

    What’s Next for the Cubs?

    As the Cubs get down to Opening Day roster those three will be a big story. The decisions on Workman, Bruján and Thompson will impact the team’s depth and flexibility all season.

  • Caden Dana Dominates with 3 Perfect Innings as Angels Rally to Tie Cubs

    Caden Dana Dominates with 3 Perfect Innings as Angels Rally to Tie Cubs

    In a Cactus League game that had a little bit of everything the Angels and Cubs played to a 4-4 tie Thursday in Mesa, Arizona. Kyren Paris stole the show with a clutch two-run homer in the 9th inning to cap off a wild game where both teams had their moments. Here’s the recap.

    The Game: Paris Comes Through

    With two outs in the 9th and the Angels down 4-2 Kyren Paris stepped up and hit a tying two-run homer. This is Paris’ second game-tying hit in the 9th inning this spring and he’s a guy who rises to the occasion.

    “You can see the growth right in front of you,” Angels manager Ron Washington said of Paris. “It’s a totally different guy than last spring.”

    The Angels’ offense also got a boost from Tim Anderson who hit his first homer of the spring and walked. Anderson a two-time batting champ and non-roster invitee is making a case to be the Angels’ starting shortstop while Zach Neto is out.

    Pitching Report: Dana Shines After Mechanical Tweak

    Righty Caden Dana was lights out in three innings, striking out three and retiring all nine batters he faced. After struggling in his first outing (3 runs, didn’t get through two innings) Dana credits a mechanical adjustment for the turnaround.

    “It helped my fastball and gave me confidence through everything else,” Dana said. Starting in place of Jack Kochanowicz, who was sidelined due to illness, Dana delivered against a lineup full of Cubs major leaguers.

    Hans Crouse Continues Dominance

    Another standout on the mound was Hans Crouse , who pitched a perfect inning with two strikeouts. Crouse has been flawless this spring, retiring all six batters he’s faced while striking out five. His performance reinforces his status as a reliable arm in the Angels’ bullpen.

    Hitting Report: Anderson and Rada Shine

    Veteran shortstop Tim Anderson finally got his first hit of the spring (a homer) and the Angels dugout was electric. Anderson, a two-time batting champ, also walked and showed he could get on base. As a non-roster invitee Anderson is making a strong case to be the starting shortstop until Zach Neto gets back.

    Outfielder Nelson Rada made an impression not just with his bat but also with his hustle. After singling, Rada beat out what appeared to be a routine force play at second base, demonstrating the kind of energy that can change the course of a game.

    Defense Report: Stellar Plays Up the Middle

    Shortstop Scott Kingery showed off his defense with a backhand play on a ball up the middle. Then he threw a strike to the bag on the run and the fans and coaches were impressed.

    Double Play Chemistry

    Kingery teamed up with Tim Anderson to execute a crisp double play in the fifth inning. Their quick collaboration ended the frame and showcased the chemistry developing between the two middle infielders.

  • Cubs’ Second Baseman Nico Hoerner to Rehab, Miss Japan Games

    Cubs’ Second Baseman Nico Hoerner to Rehab, Miss Japan Games

    Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner won’t be going to Japan for the season-opening Tokyo Series against the Dodgers. The decision is to make sure he’s ready for the regular season and he’s still rehabbing from his right forearm flexor tendon surgery. Here’s what you need to know and how it affects the Cubs.

    Why Hoerner Is Staying Behind?

    Hoerner had surgery on October 11, 2023 and while he’s progressing well, he’s limited in Spring Training. The Cubs feel he’s best staying behind.

    Manager Craig Counsell emphasized that this is a positive development overall. “We are very much tracking toward domestic Opening Day of him being ready for that and prepared for that,” Counsell said. “His rehab has taken a step forward in the last three weeks. We’re in a really good spot.”

    The Cubs open their regular season on March 27 against the Diamondbacks in Arizona, and the goal is to have Hoerner fully healthy by then.

    The Japan Trip

    The Cubs play the Dodgers in a two-game series in Tokyo on March 18-19. That will take 10 days out of Spring Training and Hoerner won’t get the at-bats and reps he needs to be ready for the season.

    “He needs at-bats. He needs to play,” Counsell said. “The trip just doesn’t allow him to do that in the right way.”

    Instead of rushing Hoerner back, the Cubs are prioritizing his long-term health and readiness for the 162 game season.

    Who Steps In at Second Base?

    With Hoerner out for the Japan series, the Cubs will go with Vidal Brujan and Jon Berti at second base. Both will get to play in front of an international crowd.

    What About Matt Strahm?

    Third baseman Matt Strahm who suffered an oblique on February 5 is also a question mark for the Japan trip. Strahm is scheduled to see live pitching for the first time on Saturday and could make his Cactus League debut on Sunday.

    “Nothing is off the table with Matt,” Counsell said.

    Hoerner’s Importance to the Cubs

    Hoerner has been the Cubs’ best player over the last two seasons. In 2023-24 he had a 12.8 WAR (per FanGraphs) with 26 home runs and 94 stolen bases. He’s been one of the best defensive second basemen in the league (8th in the MLB with a +38 OAA over that span) and won a Gold Glove in 2023. Hoerner’s health is key to the Cubs and they’re not taking any chances with his recovery.

  • Mets Land Alexander Canario in Trade with Cubs: What It Means

    Mets Land Alexander Canario in Trade with Cubs: What It Means

    The New York Mets have made a move to add some depth by acquiring outfielder Alexander Canario from the Chicago Cubs for cash considerations. While Canario might not be an immediate impact player, it shows both teams are managing their 40-man rosters and addressing organizational needs. Let’s get into the trade, Canario’s impact and what it means for the Mets and Cubs going forward.

    The Trade Details

    The Mets have officially acquired Alexander Canario from the Cubs after putting infielder Nick Madrigal on the 60-day injured list to clear a 40-man roster spot. The Cubs had designated Canario for assignment last week when they signed veteran slugger Justin Turner. Since Canario is out of options, the Cubs had to trade him or expose him to waivers.

    Canario is a 24-year-old outfielder who was once a prospect in the Cubs system. But he couldn’t translate his raw power into results at the plate so the Cubs cut ties. Now the Mets are taking a chance on him to contribute at some point in the future.

    Who Is Alexander Canario?

    Background

    • Acquired by the Cubs: Canario was part of the 2021 trade deadline deal that sent Kris Bryant to the San Francisco Giants. Alongside pitcher Caleb Kilian, Canario was the big get in return.
    • Prospect Rankings: Baseball America had Canario in the Cubs’ top 15 prospects in 2023 and 2024. But his hit tool concerns dropped him to 26th in the system this offseason.

    Strengths

    • Raw Power: Canario has bat speed and can hit. 37 Homeruns in his first full season in the Cubs’ system and 18 in half a season with Triple-A Iowa last year.
    • Arm Strength: Plus arm in right field, limited range.

    Weakness

    • Strikeouts: Canario can’t hit. 26.3% of his PA’s over 7 pro seasons. 30.4% with Triple-A Iowa last year.
    • Limited Role: Corner outfielder with below average range. Bench or platoon player, not an everyday starter.

    Why Did the Cubs Let Him Go?

    The Cubs decided to DFA Canario due to roster construction. Kyle Schwarber and Ian Happ in the corner outfield and Seiya Suzuki getting most of the DH at bats so there was no room for Canario in Chicago.

    And Canario’s issues with contact and pitch recognition made him a “Quad-A” player. Too good for the minors but not quite ready for consistent MLB action.

    What Does This Mean for the Mets?

    For the Mets, Canario is a low-risk, high-reward play. But getting into that crowded outfield will be tough. Here’s why:

    Current Mets Outfield Depth

    • Locks for Opening Day:
      • Juan Soto (Left Field)
      • Brandon Nimmo (Center Field)
      • Tyrone Taylor (Right Field/Backup)
      • Jose Siri (Fourth Outfielder)
      • Starling Marte (Starting Right Fielder)
    • Designated Hitter: Jesse Winker

    With 5 outfielders already on the Opening Day roster and Winker at DH, there’s no room for Canario in the lineup. Plus the Mets utility infield spot (previously reserved for Madrigal) is up for grabs now that he’s hurt.

    Canario’s Path to Playing Time

    Unless the Mets get hurt again, Canario won’t be on the Opening Day roster. He’ll likely start the season in Triple-A Syracuse where the Mets can continue to develop him. If he does well, he’ll be called up later in the year as a bench bat or platoon player.

    FAQs About the Mets-Cubs Trade

    Why did the Mets trade Alexander Canario?

    Mets designated Canario for assignment to make room for Justin Turner on the 40-man roster. With limited OF opportunities, they traded him rather than lose him on waivers.

    What are Alexander Canario’s strengths?

    Raw power, bat speed, strong arm. Hit 18 HR in half a season in Triple-A last year.

    What are Canario’s weaknesses?

    Highest strikeout guy in the system (30.4% last year) and hit tool is inconsistent. Questions about his ability to hit MLB pitching.

    Will Alexander Canario make the Opening Day roster?

    No. 5 OF and a DH in the lineup already. He’ll start in Triple-A Syracuse.

    What does this mean for Nick Madrigal?

    Madrigal was put on the 60-day IL with a fractured left shoulder, opened up a 40-man roster spot for Canario. His absence creates uncertainty in the utility infielder role.