The Chicago Cubs are making a late-season push by reportedly reaching an agreement with veteran first baseman Carlos Santana. This move, just ahead of the postseason eligibility deadline, looks to add depth and playoff readiness to Chicago’s lineup.
Santana, 39, was recently released by the Cleveland Guardians. They wanted to give more playing time to younger players.
The Cubs see Santana as a valuable platoon partner for Michael Busch. This also lets Justin Turner focus on designated hitting duties.
With the Cubs holding a solid wild card position, Santana could add experience and defensive stability as the postseason approaches.
Chicago Cubs Add Veteran Depth for Stretch Run
The Cubs’ signing of Carlos Santana isn’t just another roster move. It’s a calculated decision with October baseball in mind.
Right now, Chicago sits at 78-58, two games ahead of the San Diego Padres for the top National League wild card spot. They’re also 10 games ahead in the overall playoff race.
Catching the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers (85-52) seems unlikely. Still, the Cubs control their postseason destiny.
The Platoon Plan: Santana and Busch
Santana will likely split first base duties with Michael Busch. The plan? Maximize matchups.
Against left-handed pitching this season, Santana has put up a .235/.328/.353 slash line—slightly better than his overall numbers of .225/.316/.333. He’s still a Gold Glove-caliber defender at first base, giving Chicago some much-needed reliability in the field.
Justin Turner’s Role Remains Key
Veteran infielder Justin Turner, now 40, has hit .271/.319/.435 against lefties. By letting Santana and Busch share first base, Turner can focus on the designated hitter role.
This move could help keep Turner fresh down the stretch. It’s a modern baseball approach—using platoons and specialized roles to find small advantages over a long season.
Postseason Eligibility Considerations
The Cubs are moving quickly to finish the deal before the August 31 postseason eligibility deadline. Signing Santana before this date makes him eligible for the playoff roster.
Santana brings experience, too—he’s played in 21 career playoff games. That kind of leadership can matter in the clubhouse.
Cleveland Guardians Shift Toward Youth
The Cleveland Guardians decided to part ways with Santana in what President of Baseball Operations Chris Antonetti called a “joint decision.” This clears space for younger corner infielders like Kyle Manzardo and C.J. Kayfus to get more big league time.
It’s a pivotal moment for Cleveland. They’re just three games out of the final American League wild card spot, but they’re also betting on developing future cornerstones.
Financial Ramifications
The Guardians will cover the rest of Santana’s $12 million salary this season, except for the prorated league minimum the Cubs now pay. For Chicago, it’s a low-cost gamble on a player who could help on both sides of the ball.
His veteran presence might prove invaluable in October.
Why Santana to the Cubs Makes Sense
The Cubs’ lineup has been solid, but they’ve struggled at times against left-handed pitching. Adding Santana gives them:
- Experienced postseason presence in the clubhouse
- Defensive upgrade at first base
- Better matchups versus left-handers
- Flexibility with Michael Busch’s and Justin Turner’s roles
Looking Ahead
The postseason is almost here, and the Cubs are hoping this move sharpens their edge for some crucial late-season games. Santana brings experience, solid defense, and a knack for working counts—skills that matter when every pitch feels like it could decide the season.
In the National League, where the race stays tight, depth and adaptability can really set contenders apart. The Cubs think Carlos Santana might just be what gets them there.
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Here is the source article for this story: Cubs pick up Carlos Santana: Chicago reportedly signing MLB veteran with focus on top wild card spot
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