Sources: Conforto Agrees to Minor League Deal with Chicago Cubs

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Sources: Conforto Agrees to Minor League Deal with Chicago Cubs

Free agent outfielder Michael Conforto has reached an agreement on a minor league contract with the Chicago Cubs, sources confirmed to ESPN on Monday. This development marks a new chapter for the veteran slugger, who is aiming to rebound after a statistically challenging season and prove his worth in the National League Central.

Conforto, 32, endured a tough year with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2023, hitting a career-low .199 with limited power. The deal with the Cubs is contingent on him making the big league roster, requiring him to impress during spring training. This situation mirrors many players who, after facing performance dips, seek a fresh start and an opportunity to re-establish themselves in a new environment. The Cubs, known for giving players chances to prove themselves, offer such a platform.

His most productive years came during his tenure with the New York Mets, particularly from 2017 to 2020. During this period, Conforto posted an impressive .864 OPS and accumulated 12.2 Wins Above Replacement (WAR), according to Baseball-Reference. This peak performance showcased his potential as a middle-of-the-order threat. However, since 2021, his offensive numbers have steadily declined. He has struggled to hit above .239 and has not registered an OPS-plus above league average (100) in recent seasons, indicating a significant drop-off in offensive production.

Over the last three seasons, Conforto hit a combined 47 home runs, playing for the San Francisco Giants and then the Dodgers before becoming a free agent. While the home run power remains a potential asset, his overall offensive inconsistency has been a major concern for teams evaluating his market value. A minor league deal allows the Cubs to take a low-risk, potentially high-reward approach.

The Chicago Cubs currently have a crowded outfield picture, especially among their non-roster invitees to spring training. Players like Dylan Carlson and Chas McCormick are also vying for spots, as the team seeks the optimal combination to break camp. A key priority for the Cubs is to secure a reliable backup center fielder for Pete Crow-Armstrong. With Crow-Armstrong expected to be the primary center fielder, the depth behind him is crucial.

Furthermore, the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC) will impact the Cubs' roster availability during spring training. Both Pete Crow-Armstrong and right fielder/designated hitter Seiya Suzuki are scheduled to depart for the tournament. This absence opens up valuable opportunities for non-roster invitees, including Conforto, to showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot on the major league roster. The Cubs will be looking for players who can fill these temporary voids and provide depth.

Conforto's career statistics include 179 home runs, 23 stolen bases, and a career OPS-plus of 115. These numbers reflect a player who has had significant success at the major league level. The challenge now is for him to leverage this experience and perform consistently under the bright lights of Wrigley Field, or at least on the path to get there. His ability to stay healthy and perform against major league pitching will be closely monitored throughout spring training.

The agreement was initially reported by MLB Network, adding further credibility to the news. Baseball fans will be watching closely to see if Michael Conforto can indeed prove himself during spring training and become a valuable contributor to the Chicago Cubs' quest for success in the upcoming season.

Ekhbary News Agency