Photo: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Cubs Add Veteran Catcher on Minor-League Deal

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Bobby Foster | Last updated Dec 22, 2024 10:51 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs continue to scour the market for depth signings. This time, they are turning to veteran catcher Carlos Perez, signing him to a minor-league deal with a Spring Training invite.

It's standard procedure for teams to find hidden gems before they break for camp. After a revolving door of catchers in 2024, the Cubs might need all they can get even after signing Carson Kelly.

Carlos Perez's Baseball Journey

Since his debut in 2015, Perez has bounced around baseball. After starting his big league career with the Angels, he also made stops in both Atlanta and Texas in 2018 before spending the 2019-2022 seasons bouncing around various minor league teams. His last appearance in the big leagues came as a member of the Oakland Athletics in 2023.

The Cubs love to find those diamonds in the rough. More often than not, they seem to hit on a lot of them. Christian Bethancourt was a serviceable catcher during his time on the North Side.

Prioritizing Defense in Catching Strategy

It's no secret that the Cubs value defense over offense in its pursuit of catching. Ever since Willson Contreras departed, the team has focused on growing its young pitchers with the help of veteran catchers.

Perez could be valuable in Triple-A Iowa as a mentor for the team's younger players. Moises Ballesteros is one notable prospect who could seek guidance from the veteran catcher.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

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