The Cubs have reportedly signed outfielder Jake Marisnick to a minor-league deal. The deal, which is pending a physical, is worth $1 million in 2021 with a mutual option for ‘22.
Marisnick’s strength has always been his glove and he’s been considered one of the best defensive outfielders over the last five seasons. The 29-year-old outfielder is plus-71 defensive runs saved and plus-39 outs above average since he debuted in 2013 with the Marlins.
The Cubs will have to find offense elsewhere. Marisnick hit .333 with two homers, but due to left and right hamstring injuries, he was limited to just 16 games with the Mets. He has a career .229/.281/.385 slash line with 56 homers and 72 stolen bases in eight season with the Marlins, Astros and Mets.
The signing of Marisnick strengthens the Cubs bench by adding a defensive wizard who can be a boost in late-game situations with the glove and also have an occasional spot start. With only one bench spot available with the rosters going back to 26, outfielder Phillip Ervin and Marisnick will be competing for the fourth outfielder job this spring.
