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Chicago Cubs Create More Infield Depth, Sign Former White Sox Infielder
Jed Hoyer continues to wheel and deal for the Chicago Cubs this winter.
Connected to multiple high-profile players at this point in time, the front office is weighing the decision between going “all in” this season in a loaded National League and continuing to plan for the future.
They made a move on Sunday, but it wasn’t for one of the stars.
Per Jon Heyman of The New York Post, Nick Lopez is joining the Cubs. Jesse Rogers of ESPN reports it’s on a minor league deal.
This adds another infielder to the equation as Chicago gets ready for their early Spring Training period based on them beginning the upcoming campaign in Japan against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 18-19.
Nico Hoerner’s status for Opening Day is up in the air after undergoing offseason surgery, and while Dansby Swanson says he’ll be ready for Game 1 coming off his own injury, having insurance is never a bad thing, especially when there are already questions at third base.
Lopez isn’t an offensive wizard by any means.
Across his six Major League seasons, he’s produced a slash line of .248/.312/.314 with an OPS+ that’s 26 points below the league average.
However, with the Chicago White Sox last year, he produced his best season since his breakout in 2021 as a member of the Kansas City Royals.
Lopez slashed .241/.312/.294 with an OPS+ of 76 across his 124 games and 455 plate appearances. Nothing to write home about, but he was worth five Outs Above Average at second base and shortstop, which is certainly valuable off the bench.
The Chicago Cubs have added more depth to their infield by signing former White Sox infielder, Yolmer Sanchez. Sanchez, who spent the last six seasons with the White Sox, brings versatility and experience to the Cubs’ roster.
Sanchez is known for his strong defense and ability to play multiple infield positions, including second base, third base, and shortstop. He is also a switch-hitter, which adds another dimension to the Cubs’ lineup.
With injuries and inconsistencies plaguing the Cubs’ infield in recent years, Sanchez provides a reliable option off the bench and could even compete for a starting role. His energetic playing style and leadership qualities will also be valuable in the clubhouse.
Overall, the addition of Yolmer Sanchez gives the Cubs more depth and flexibility in their infield, which could prove to be crucial as they aim to compete for a playoff spot in the upcoming season. Cubs fans should be excited to see what Sanchez brings to the team in 2022.
Tags:
- Chicago Cubs
- Infield depth
- Former White Sox infielder
- MLB offseason
- Free agent signing
- Chicago baseball news
- Roster addition
- North side vs. South side
- Cross-town rivalry
- Chicago sports headlines
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