Chicago Cubs select Nicky Lopez to the active roster

The Cubs have selected the contract of infielder Nicky Lopez to the major league roster. As the team’s corresponding move, they placed pitcher Porter Hodge to the 60-day Injured List. This comes after the team acquired Lopez for cash considerations from the Colorado Rockies. Lopez has a .621 career OPS and can play all over the infield. He is expected to be a player off the bench to be a backup infielder. He’s a good defender, so he can come into the game as a defensive replacement.

Lopez has some history with the organization, playing 14 games with the team in 2025. In the 14 games with the Cubs, he was 1 for 18 (.056) with one RBI, and two runs. He also had 4:3 walk-to-strikeout ratio, showcasing a strong contact skill. Expect to see him 1-2 times per week in the lineup. He’s a veteran that can be a nice piece  There is no shame to having a veteran with strong bat-to-ball skills and can play multiple positions on the diamond.

With the trade being just for cash considerations, this means the front office can cut bait if things go south or another player is ready to be called up. It will be intriguing to see how manager Craig Counsell uses Lopez going forward.