The Chicago Cubs, potentially on the cusp of a turnaround, continue to seek value signings, with General Manager Jed Hoyer now bringing back outfielder Trayce Thompson.
According to Tommy Birch of the Des Moines Register, Thompson signed a minor-league contract with the Cubs on Wednesday and promptly joined Triple-A Iowa’s lineup the same day. This move appears to bolster depth, particularly with Owen Caissie nursing a back injury. Thompson is expected to see significant playing time given Caissie’s health concerns, and a strong showing could prompt a call-up to the Cubs.
Thompson, who debuted with the Chicago White Sox in 2015, has had stints with four other teams since then and previously played for the Cubs in 2021. Following the Cubs’ recent restructuring after their championship core departure, Thompson’s signing addresses depth needs, having contributed four home runs in 15 games during his prior stint with the team.
During the 2023 season, Thompson split time between the Los Angeles Dodgers and White Sox, with the latter acquiring him in the Lance Lynn trade deadline deal. With uncertainty surrounding Cody Bellinger’s availability, the Cubs’ decision to bring in Thompson underscores their current depth challenges, with reliance on seasoned players not uncommon.
Trayce Thompson’s return represents another low-risk move typical of the Cubs’ front office strategy. Success could prove beneficial, while minimal impact at Triple-A would not pose significant concerns.
