After signing a minor-league deal in early March, Garrett Cooper has been making a case for the Chicago Cubs to include him on their Opening Day roster. The veteran has experience at first base and right field, and versatility will likely factor into the Cubs' roster decisions ahead of the March 28 season opener.
In 20 plate appearances, Cooper is having an impressive spring with a .300 batting average. Such production would help the Cubs lineup at first base and, more specifically, in the DH role. While J.D. Martinez would be a fit with the team, Cooper could still provide production at a lower cost.
With Christopher Morel set to see more time at third base in 2024, Cooper could be in position to serve as the DH for manager Craig Counsell to start the season. The former All-Star turned down offers from other clubs, and one would think the Cubs can offer him the best path toward big-league playing time.
If Cooper can make the club and produce a solid season on the North Side, the Cubs will get an important boost in their pursuit of the NL Central Division crown.
With other non-roster invitees David Peralta and Dominic Smith still in camp, the Cubs face some interesting decisions on bench spots in the coming weeks. The likes of Miles Mastrobuoni and Patrick Wisdom figure to have their spots locked up at this point.
Regardless of the outcome, Cooper's spring has been impressive, he'd certainly be deserving of landing a spot on the Cubs Opening Day roster.
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