What's Happening?
The Chicago Cubs have announced the signing of first baseman Tyler Austin to a one-year major league contract valued at $1.25 million. Austin, who has spent the last six seasons playing in Japan, returns to Major League Baseball (MLB) after a stint with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). During his time in Japan, Austin demonstrated significant power, hitting 20 home runs in 2020 and 28 in 2021, despite injuries limiting his play in subsequent seasons. The Cubs, who had seven vacancies on their 40-man roster, did not need to make a corresponding move to accommodate Austin. The team is looking to bolster its lineup with Austin's power-hitting capabilities, especially as they seek a right-handed complement to their current
first baseman, Michael Busch, who struggles against left-handed pitching.
Why It's Important?
This signing is significant for the Cubs as they aim to strengthen their offensive lineup with a cost-effective option. Tyler Austin's return to MLB could provide the Cubs with a valuable power hitter at a minimal financial risk, given his contract is just above the league minimum. The move also reflects the Cubs' strategy to fill roster gaps with experienced players who have proven track records in international leagues. If Austin can replicate his NPB success in the MLB, he could become a key player for the Cubs, offering depth and flexibility in their batting order. This signing also highlights the increasing trend of MLB teams looking to international leagues for talent, especially players who have revitalized their careers abroad.
What's Next?
The Cubs will likely integrate Tyler Austin into their spring training roster to assess his readiness for the upcoming season. His performance during this period will determine his role and potential impact on the team's lineup. The Cubs may also continue to explore additional roster moves to complement Austin's signing, particularly in their designated hitter and outfield positions. As the team prepares for the new season, they will monitor Austin's health and performance closely, given his recent injury history. The success of this signing could influence future decisions regarding international player acquisitions and the team's overall strategy in building a competitive roster.
