Carlos Santana, Cubs Reportedly Agree to Contract After Being Released by Guardians

The Chicago Cubs are reportedly adding a veteran presence to their team ahead of the 2025 season's stretch run.

ESPN's Jesse Rogers and Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported Sunday that Chicago is signing first baseman Carlos Santana. The 39-year-old was available after the Cleveland Guardians released him.

"In the last week, we had a lot of dialogue with Carlos because of the incredible appreciation we have for him," Guardians team president of baseball operations Chris Antonetti said Friday, per Brian Dulik of the Associated Press. "And I give him a ton of credit for being very much a stabilizing veteran presence on our team. He has made a massive impact on our franchise."

There was a time when Santana would have been a major addition.

He was an All-Star and Silver Slugger in 2019 when he launched 34 home runs during his first stint with Cleveland and then won a Gold Glove just last season for the Minnesota Twins.

However, he was inconsistent this season prior to his release and slashed .225/.316/.333 with 11 home runs and 52 RBI in 116 games.

Chicago will be another stop for the veteran who has played for the Guardians, Philadelphia Phillies, Kansas City Royals, Seattle Mariners, Pittsburgh Pirates, Milwaukee Brewers and Twins during his career.

He likely won't play a major role on the Cubs at this stage, but he figures to be a part of the lineup when they face left-handed pitchers. As Rogers pointed out, the National League Central team is 17-19 this season when facing southpaw starters.

Chicago often sits starting first baseman Michael Busch for Justin Turner when it does face those left-handed pitchers, so Santana gives manager Craig Counsell another option to mix and match the lineup.

He can also be a late-game defensive substitution after taking home the Gold Glove last year.