Robel Garcia Leaves Cubs Organization for KBO

Unsung Iowa Cubs hero and infielder Robel Garcia leaves the Chicago Cubs organization after demolishing Triple-A this season. According to Tommy Birch of the Des Moines Register, Garcia was released to pursue an opportunity overseas. 

Initially, it wasn’t stated where Garica was signing. However, according to Dan Kurtz of MyKBO.net, the 29-year-old infielder is signing with the LG Twins of the KBO League for $180,000. Garcia fills the void left by former major leaguer Rio Ruiz, who the LG Twins recently released. The former Houston Astros 2012 Draft Pick slashed .155/.234/.262 in 27 games with the Twins. 

Garcia should add stability to the Twins’ infield as they make a push in the standings. Currently, they’re 5.5 games back of the SSG Landers. Garcia departs the Iowa Cubs ranking second in the International League in OPS (1.013) and tied for fifth in home runs (12). He had a .295/.394/.619 slash line with 12 homers, 30 RBIs, .428 wOBA, and 162 wRC+ in 41 games.

Garcia earned International League Player of the Week honors for his efforts from May 9-15. During that stretch, Garcia hit .409 with six homers and nine RBI during that span, including four consecutive games with home runs.

As we’ve become accustomed to hearing in Iowa from broadcaster Alex Cohen, “Ro-bombs” will now find a new home. The LG Twins got a good one in the switch-hitting Garcia. Unfortunately, the active roster and stacked farm system meant Garcia was an odd man out. The Cubs will need to make more roster decisions as Seiya Suzuki, David Bote, and others return from injury.