Cubs Sign Jon Berti to Bolster Infield Depth
The Chicago Cubs addressed their need for versatile infield depth by signing Jon Berti to a one-year contract.
The deal, as reported by Robert Murray of FanSided and Mark Feinsand of MLB.com, is worth $2 million guaranteed wiht an additional $1.3 million in potential performance bonuses.
Berti, who turns 35 today, adds experience and athleticism to the Cubs’ bench. He is capable of playing all three infield positions (second base, third base, and shortstop) and possesses solid defensive skills at each. He also brings speed to the basepaths, having swiped 41 bags in 46 attempts in 2022.
The signing aligns with the Cubs’ stated offseason priority of upgrading their bench.
President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer indicated last week that the team was seeking a multi-positional infielder to bolster the roster.
Berti’s arrival comes after the cubs traded Isaac Paredes to Houston as part of the deal for Kyle Tucker. While Chicago has a strong outfield and recently added catcher Carson Kelly, their infield depth was thinned by the Paredes trade.
Berti, a lefthanded hitter, compiled a credible .268/.334/.373 batting line across the 2022 and 2023 seasons while playing over 100 games for the Marlins each year. While he doesn’t offer important power, his ability to get on base and steal bases makes him a valuable asset.The Cubs currently have a full 40-man roster,so a corresponding move will need to be made to accommodate Berti’s addition.
Veteran Infielder Berti Lands With Cubs on One-Year Deal
Veteran infielder Joey Berti has signed a one-year deal with the Chicago Cubs, securing a guaranteed spot on their MLB roster. Berti, who was non-tendered by the New York Yankees this offseason, will likely serve as a versatile bench option for the Cubs.
The 33-year-old Berti was acquired by the Yankees from the Miami Marlins before the 2022 season. He has the potential to play multiple infield positions, potentially filling in at second base while Nico Hoerner recovers from flexor tendon surgery and possibly providing depth at third base if top prospect Matt Shaw struggles in his MLB debut.
Berti’s versatility and MLB experience make him a valuable addition to the Cubs’ bench. He provides insurance for injuries and offers a reliable fallback option for key positions.
cubs Make Roster Moves, Eye Bullpen Upgrades
The Chicago Cubs have designated pitcher Gage Workman for assignment and optioned infielder Vidal Bruján to Triple-A Iowa, the team announced Wednesday.
These moves come as the Cubs continue to shape their Opening Day roster. Workman, a Rule 5 pick, faces an uncertain future with the team. Bruján, a former top prospect acquired from Miami last month, is out of minor league options and cannot be sent down without clearing waivers.
The Cubs’ pursuit of bullpen reinforcements is ongoing. President of Baseball Operations Jed hoyer has previously stated that upgrading the bullpen is a priority.
With the additions of shortstops Dansby Swanson and Eric Hosmer, the Cubs’ projected luxury tax number sits at approximately $200 million, according to RosterResource. This still leaves them well below the tax threshold, providing ample financial flexibility for additional acquisitions. The Cubs have been linked to several high-profile relievers in both trade and free agency,signaling their intent to bolster a crucial area of the team.
How does Jon Berti’s signing impact the Chicago Cubs’ infield depth for the upcoming season?
The Chicago Cubs have signed Jon Berti to a one-year contract to add depth to their infield. [[1](https://www.bleedcubbieblue.com/2024/1/12/24035468/chicago-cubs-swing-for-the-fences-with-michael-busch-cody-bellinger-dodgers)] This article does not provide details about the contract.
