Cubs reportedly sign former All-Star outfielder |
The Cubs are signing 33-year old outfielder Carlos Gonzalez on a minor league deal according to multiple reports. He will be joining the Iowa Cubs on Saturday and when promoted will receive the pro-rated minimum league contract.
Gonzalez was recently by the Indians on May 22 after batting .210 with two homers, seven RBIs with a .558 OPS in 117 plate appearances (30 games). This is a pretty low-risk move as you stash the veteran in Triple-A and bring him up if you need an extra outfielder besides Mark Zagunis, Ian Happ, and Jim Adduci. The Cubs are probably hoping that Gonzalez catches fire being part of a pennant race and able to contribute and re-live some of his former glory. Obviously, with the absence of Ben Zobrist, a roster spot is up for grabs and he could work himself in to the mix as a lefty hitter off the bench. Back in 2016, he hit .298 with 25 homers and drove in 100 RBI. For his 11-year career, Gonzalez is a .285 hitter with 233 homers and 783 RBI. Some of his past accolades with his 10-years with the Colorado Rockies included being a three-time All-Star (2012, 2013, 2016), three-time Gold-Glove winner (2010, 2012, 2013) and NL batting champion in 2010. The last two years, he has been only a combined .232 hitter. On plane headed to St. Louis. Finishing up thoughts on CarGo, would not be surprised to see him at Wrigley next week when team comes home. assuming he gets a few AB's this weekend with Iowa, etc.
