David Peralta, a free-agent outfielder, has reached an agreement with the Chicago Cubs, as reported by Robert Murray of FanSided. According to Jesse Rogers of ESPN, Peralta will be joining the Cubs on a minor-league contract.
Additionally, Jon Heyman of The New York Post has stated that the Cubs have also secured first baseman Dom Smith on a Minor League deal, including an invitation to the MLB camp.
Peralta, a seasoned veteran with 11 years of experience, spent the previous season with the Los Angeles Dodgers. During his tenure there, he attained a batting average of .259, accumulating 102 hits and launching seven home runs.
Meanwhile, Smith, who played for the Washington Nationals last season, posted a batting average of .254, amassing 134 hits along with 12 home runs.
Following offseason forearm surgery to address a torn flexor tendon, Peralta is expected to undergo recovery in the Minors. Once he completes his rehabilitation, he is anticipated to transition to the Major League roster.
The Cubs’ pursuit of re-signing free-agent outfielder Cody Bellinger is ongoing, although negotiations with the star player have yet to yield a deal.
Tom Ricketts, owner of the Cubs, expressed the team’s stance on the matter, indicating that they are eagerly awaiting Bellinger and his agent’s decision to engage in discussions.
Reflecting on his inaugural season with the Cubs, Bellinger achieved a career-best batting average of .307, along with 153 hits and 26 home runs, earning him the league’s Comeback Player of the Year Award.
Despite declining a $25 million option for the 2024 season to explore the market, Bellinger remains unsigned as Spring Training approaches.
Having concluded the previous season with a record of 83-79, failing to qualify for the postseason for the third consecutive year, the Cubs are determined to reclaim their postseason status in 2024. Bellinger’s potential re-signing is viewed as pivotal in their pursuit of this objective.
