Cubs Signing Veteran 1B Carlos Santana

Héctor Gómez was first to report the Cubs’ interest in veteran slugger Carlos Santana, who the Guardians placed on outright waivers five days ago, and Jon Heyman was first with news that a deal is done. The 39-year-old switch-hitter is owed a little over $2 million on his $12 million deal, and the Cubs will be responsible for that prorated portion. Terms of the deal are not yet known.

Santana is slashing .225/.316/.333 with 11 homers and an 86 wRC+ that says he’s well below average at the plate. He has been a little better from the right side, where he carries a 93 wRC+ with four homers. He still plays excellent defense at first as well, which adds to his value. Though Justin Turner has performed better at the plate, boasting a 109 wRC+ against southpaws, the Cubs may view the added pop and superior defense as necessary down the stretch.

We’ll find out soon whether the Cubs will DFA Turner or option Owen Caissie, who has played sparingly since being promoted, in order to make room. Or the Cubs could wait until rosters expand on September 1 to avoid such a personnel move. On that note, Mike Rodriguez reported Sunday morning that Kevin Alcantara is being promoted.

More to come…