The Chicago Cubs made headlines this spring when they released Nicky Lopez, a 2024 Gold Glove finalist, after he didn’t make their 26-man roster. But the story didn’t end there. Two days before Opening Day the Los Angeles Angels swooped in and signed Lopez to a one-year MLB deal for $850,000. Not only did they sign him but they also guaranteed he’d be on their 2025 Opening Day roster. Let’s break down how this impacts both teams and if the Cubs will regret letting him go.
Lopez’s Signing with the Angels
Two days before Opening Day, the Angels announced they signed Nicky Lopez to a one year MLB deal for $850,000. General manager Perry Minasian praised Lopez’s baseball IQ and situational awareness saying:
“He was somebody that was attractive in the sense that he knows how to play the game, and play depending on the scoreboard and the situation.”
For Lopez this is an opportunity to prove himself again at the big league level.
Where Will Lopez Fit In on the Angels’ Roster?
In the short term, Lopez will fill a big void left by shortstop Zach Neto, who is rehabbing from shoulder surgery. Neto is expected to return sometime in April, but Lopez will provide stability and elite defense during his absence.
Beyond Neto’s return, Lopez’s signing could be an audition for a longer term role with the Angels. Lopez is known for his defensive skills and can play all over the infield, so he’s valuable even when the starting lineup is full.
Should the Cubs Have Kept Nicky Lopez?
The Cubs’ decision to release Lopez raises the question of whether they made the right call. Lopez was brought in as insurance during Nico Hoerner’s elbow surgery. Thankfully Hoerner’s rehab has gone well and there’s no need for extra infield depth.
With Jon Berti and utility options like Vidal Brujan or Gage Workman already in the mix the Cubs likely felt their current infield was set. While letting an elite defender like Lopez go may hurt they seem to be comfortable with their existing group.
Why This Makes Sense for Both Teams?
For the Cubs, this was a calculated move based on their current roster and construction. They have infield depth and would have had to sacrifice another player or create a logjam to keep Lopez.
For Lopez, this is a fresh start and a chance to show what he can do on a bigger stage. He’s a defensive wizard and can adapt to different roles and the Angels are looking to stabilize their infield.
Cubs’ Current Infield Depth
The Cubs are going into 2025 with a solid group of infielders:
- Jon Berti: A veteran who can play multiple positions.
- Justin Turner: A steady 3B and occasional DH.
- Vidal Brujan or Gage Workman: Young players vying for utility roles.
Losing Lopez might seem like a missed opportunity but the front office clearly prioritized other areas of need over him.