Carlos Santana Makes Chicago Cubs Debut in Extra-Innings Win

The Chicago Cubs made headlines by signing veteran power hitter Carlos Santana as rosters expanded for September. The 39-year-old first baseman, known for his disciplined eye at the plate and postseason experience, joins a Cubs team chasing a late-season playoff spot.

In his debut, Santana went hitless. Still, Chicago pulled off a dramatic extra-inning win over the Atlanta Braves, showing off the kind of resilience and depth management hopes Santana can spark.

Catcher Carson Kelly and outfielder Ian Happ delivered clutch performances. Newly acquired pitcher Aaron Civale gave a boost to the rotation, and honestly, the Cubs look like they’re gearing up for a serious postseason run.

Carlos Santana’s Wrigley Field Homecoming

For Santana, signing with the Cubs is personal. He faced Chicago in the 2016 World Series with Cleveland, and now he finally gets to wear the home jersey at iconic Wrigley Field.

He called it a longtime dream come true. Even after a strikeout in his first Cubs at-bat, the buzz around his arrival was undeniable, pumping up both fans and teammates.

Career Achievements and Recent Form

Santana brings one of the most impressive resumes among active players. His career totals include:

• 335 home runs
• 1,144 RBIs
• 1,330 walks — the highest among active players

Earlier this season, before Cleveland released him, Santana hit .225 with 11 homers and 52 RBIs. He still gets on base and works deep counts, which could be huge in tight September games, even if his power’s faded a bit with age.

A Dramatic Win Over the Braves

Santana’s debut didn’t deliver personal fireworks, but the Cubs’ offense came alive late against one of the NL’s best. In front of 39,673 fans, Chicago rallied to edge the Braves 7-6 in a wild 10-inning game.

Clutch Hitting from Carson Kelly and Ian Happ

The Cubs trailed late until Carson Kelly launched a two-run homer in the eighth to tie it up. He wasn’t done — in the bottom of the 10th, Kelly ripped the walk-off double that sent Wrigley into a frenzy.

Ian Happ kept swinging a hot bat, going 3-for-5 with a home run and cementing his spot as one of Chicago’s most reliable hitters.

Reliever Andrew Kittredge grabbed the win, shutting down the Braves in extras and helping the Cubs notch one of their most spirited victories of the season.

Roster Moves Bolstering the Playoff Push

The Cubs’ September roster expansion wasn’t just about Santana. President Jed Hoyer and the front office made several moves to add depth and flexibility.

• Outfielder Kevin Alcántara recalled for more athleticism and outfield coverage.
• Pitcher Aaron Civale claimed off waivers to strengthen the rotation.
• Owen Caissie optioned to the minors for roster adjustments.
• Ben Cowles designated for assignment.

Aaron Civale’s Impressive Debut

Civale jumped in right away, tossing three scoreless innings in his Cubs debut. If he can keep providing quality innings, whether as a starter or reliever, that could make a real difference as the team manages arms down the stretch.

Leadership and Veteran Presence

Manager Craig Counsell and Hoyer both say Santana brings more than just numbers to the table. He’s built a reputation as a clubhouse leader, and he doesn’t mind stepping into a supporting role.

That kind of presence adds some real backbone to a young, hungry roster. The Cubs have a mix of veterans and up-and-comers, which makes things interesting heading into the final weeks of the regular season.

If Santana chips in with clutch hits and keeps steady in the dugout, his return to Wrigley might just be one of those stories fans remember from Chicago’s 2024 run.

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Here is the source article for this story: ‘My dream is to play here’: Chicago Cubs’ Carlos Santana makes his team debut in extra-innings win over Atlanta