Cubs Secure Chas McCormick in Minor League Agreement
The Chicago Cubs have signed outfielder Chas McCormick to a minor league contract, aiming to enhance their roster depth for the upcoming season. This move comes after McCormick, who was formerly with the Houston Astros, was outrighted and became a free agent following the 2025 season.
Cubs Secure Chas McCormick in Minor League Agreement
Chas McCormick, 31, is coming off a challenging period in his career. His performance with the Astros spanned from 2021 to 2023, during which he participated in 342 games and made 1,184 plate appearances. His overall statistics from this period include:
- Strikeout rate: 27.6%
- Walk rate: 9.4%
- Home runs: 50
- Slash line: .259/.336/.449
- Weighted Runs Created Plus (wRC+): 120
McCormick’s 2023 season stood out, featuring 22 home runs and 19 stolen bases, contributing to a formidable slash line of .273/.353/.489 and a wRC+ of 132. This productive year earned him a WAR of 3.3. However, he has struggled significantly since then, posting a disappointing .211/.273/.301 line from the start of 2024 onwards.
Outfield Depth for the Cubs
The Cubs are looking to bolster their outfield, particularly after losing Kyle Tucker to free agency. Seiya Suzuki will shift from designated hitter to right field, joining center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong and left fielder Ian Happ. The team now seeks a fourth outfielder from their current roster options.
Additional candidates include Kevin Alcántara and Justin Dean, both of whom are already on the 40-man roster. McCormick’s signing adds to the competition, particularly given his strong performance against left-handed pitching, where he boasts a career line of .280/.353/.493 and a wRC+ of 137.
Future Considerations
McCormick’s role will depend on his performance in spring training. He remains a valuable option for the Cubs, especially as he contemplates potential arbitration for 2027 if he secures a roster spot by the end of the season. Overall, the acquisition presents a low-risk opportunity for the Cubs to add depth to their lineup as they navigate the upcoming season.
