Breaking News: The Chicago Cubs are giving utility player Scott Kingery a second chance, signing him to a minor league deal! But what does this mean for both the player and the team? Let's dive in.
The Cubs have invited Kingery to their MLB camp as a non-roster player, as reported by various sources, including Maddie Lee of The Chicago Sun-Times. This move is particularly interesting because Kingery, who is 31 years old, is looking to revitalize his career.
Kingery made a return to the major leagues this past season, playing in 19 games with the Angels. This was his first MLB action in three years, marking a significant comeback. In those games, he had 29 plate appearances, the most he's had in a season since 2020. During those appearances, he recorded four hits, two walks, and 11 strikeouts. Throughout his career, Kingery has a batting average of .227, an on-base percentage of .278, and a slugging percentage of .382, accumulated over nearly 1200 career plate appearances, primarily with Philadelphia from 2018-2019.
This past year, Kingery spent most of his time at Triple-A Salt Lake, where he batted .228, with an on-base percentage of .284, and a slugging percentage of .402, while striking out in a quarter of his plate appearances. This performance was a step back from his 2024 season with the Phillies' top affiliate.
The Cubs likely won't expect a huge offensive contribution from the right-handed hitter. However, Kingery brings defensive versatility to the table. He can play any position on the field except first base and catcher. He's also known for being an above-average runner. This versatility makes him a potential contender for a spot on Craig Counsell's bench during Spring Training.
Here's where it gets controversial... Kingery's recent performance suggests he might not be the offensive powerhouse. Do you think his defensive skills and versatility justify a spot on the Cubs' roster? What are your thoughts on this signing? Share your opinions in the comments below!
