The Chicago Cubs made a recent signing; unfortunately, it wasn’t the re-signing of Cody Bellinger, a trade for a Starting pitcher, or even the signing of Josh Hader. Instead, they announce a minor league signing of a once highly touted Catching Prospect.
Catcher-Jorge Alafro
Jorge Alfaro signed a minor league deal with an invite to the big club spring training camp. Once a highly thought-of-catching prospect, the Free agent catcher has yet to live up to his potential. His best two seasons were in 2018 and 2019, when he was with the Phillies and then the Miami Marlins. Alfaro was JT Realmuto’s replacement in the trade between the two teams in the off-season before the 2019 season. It’s doubtful, but if he can somehow find his swing again and regain the plate presence, the Cubs might have a nice backup bat to Miguel Amaya or Yan Gomes in case one goes down or struggles during the season. It’s not the signing all Cubs fans want, but it’s a signing nonetheless.
Conclusion
Once again, the Chicago Cubs are throwing a dart at a reclaim project with low-risk potential and high reward if Alfaro can regain his form at the plate from 2018 to 2019. A minor league deal with an invite to the Major League spring training camp is harmless. The chances of Alfaro being released are higher than him playing for the AAA team in Iowa. Let’s hope the Cubs next signing has a positive impact of the Major League club.
