Full Breakdown
Cubs Strengthen Outfield Depth with New Signings
1/27/2026, 12:16:46 AM
Recent Additions to the Roster
The Chicago Cubs have taken steps to bolster their outfield depth by signing outfielders Chas McCormick and Dylan Carlson to minor league contracts with invitations to spring training. McCormick, formerly of the Houston Astros, had a productive 2023 season, batting .273 with 22 home runs. However, injuries limited his appearances in the following years, leading to a decline in performance. Carlson, a former first-round pick by the St. Louis Cardinals, was once a highly regarded prospect but has struggled with injuries and performance issues in recent seasons. In 2025, he played for the Baltimore Orioles, where he recorded a .203 batting average over 83 games.
Background on Dylan Carlson
Dylan Carlson, who turned 27 in 2026, was a finalist for the National League Rookie of the Year in 2021, showcasing his potential with a .266 batting average and 18 home runs. However, his performance has significantly declined since then, attributed largely to injuries, including hamstring and shoulder strains. In 2024, he was traded to the Tampa Bay Rays, where he continued to struggle, and subsequently signed with the Orioles. His recent statistics reflect a downward trend, with a .203 average and negative fWAR for two consecutive seasons.
Chas McCormick's Career Overview
Chas McCormick, who will turn 31 in April, also faced injury challenges in recent years, limiting his playing time. Despite a strong 2023 season, where he achieved a 3.4 bWAR, his performance in 2025 was subpar, leading to his signing with the Cubs as a potential backup outfielder. The Cubs are likely to utilize McCormick as insurance at Triple-A Iowa, given their existing outfield talent.
Official Statements & Responses
While the Cubs have not made official announcements regarding the signings, reports indicate that both players are expected to compete for roster spots during spring training. The Cubs' management appears optimistic about Carlson's potential to regain his form, stating that if he can stay healthy, he could contribute positively to the team.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the potential upside of these signings, skepticism remains regarding Carlson's ability to impact the Cubs significantly. Analysts suggest that if Carlson does not perform well, it may reflect poorly on the overall health and depth of the major league roster. Critics argue that the chances of him making a meaningful contribution are slim, given his recent track record.
What's Next
As the Cubs prepare for spring training, both McCormick and Carlson will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and compete for a place on the 26-man roster. The team's depth in the outfield, including established players like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Seiya Suzuki, adds to the competitive landscape as the Cubs aim for a successful 2026 season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If he can’t play, he just gets released.” — Analyst
- “There's nothing to lose by seeing if Carlson can get his career back on track, but the chances of him being an impact piece for the Cubs feel slim, at best.” — Analyst
- “There's nothing to lose by seeing if Carlson can get his career back on track, but the chances of him being an impact piece for the Cubs feel slim, at best.” — Analyst
