While many Chicago Cubs fans have been waiting for a particular free-agent outfielder/first baseman to sign with the team, the Club reportedly have signed a different outfielder and a different first baseman. The Chicago Cubs have signed David Peralta and Dominic Smith both to a minor league deal. The details of either signing is unclear at this time.
Outfielder – David Peralta
The 36-Year-old left-handed hitting Outfielder last played for the Los Angeles Dodgers appearing in 133 games last season. He had 25 doubles, one triple, seven Home runs, 55 RBIs, four steals, and slashed .259/.294/.381 with a .675 OPS over 422 plate appearances. The Veteran outfielder is an interesting add for the Cubs as spring training begins.
1B – Dominic Smith
Smith spent the 2023 season with the Washington Nationals appearing in 153 games, he had 21 doubles, one triple, 12 home runs, 46 RBI, and 57 runs scored. He slashed .254/.326/.366 and a .692 OPS.
Summary
While they may not be Cody Bellinger the timing seems more like a dart throw for depth by signing them to a minor league deal. Neither’s deal has yet to be defined, but I could see this being a situation move where if t weren’t to break camp with the club he could be DFA’d allowing them to try and catch on with a big league roster. With Happ, Suzuki, and Pete Crow-Armstong looking to have locked up the starting outfield spots, it is tough to see Peralta holding much value besides a bench piece piece barring any unforeseen moves or god forbid, an injury to one of the previously mentioned three players. It’ll be interesting to see what they do with Smith after camp.
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