Cubs Sign Nicky Lopez in Latest Roster Shuffle

CHICAGO, Ill. — The Chicago Cubs have added utility player Nicky Lopez to their roster, marking another move in what has become a recurring shuffle of infield depth. The signing, announced on Feb. 3, 2025, comes as the team continues to tinker with its lineup ahead of the upcoming MLB season.

Lopez, known for his defensive versatility, joins a crowded group of utility players that includes Gage Workman, Benjamin Cowles, Vidal Bruján, and Jon Berti. The 29-year-old infielder posted a 77 weighted runs created plus (wRC+) last season, a metric that measures a player’s overall offensive contribution. While his offensive numbers have been modest, Lopez’s defensive skills make him a potential asset for the Cubs.

The move has sparked debate among fans and analysts. “Why on Earth does this team need a minor league deal with Nicky Lopez?” asked one commentator. “He’s a reasonable defender, but the 77 wRC+ he put up last season means he’ll fit right in with the other five guys who look just like him on the roster.”

The Cubs’ front office, led by President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer, has been active in acquiring utility players, a strategy that has drawn both praise and criticism. Last week, the team designated Luis Vazquez for assignment to make room for Berti, a decision that raised eyebrows given Vazquez’s potential.

“The Cubs are like we need to backstop Hoerner with Berti and Berti with Bruján and Bruján with Workman and Workman with Cowles and Cowles with Lopez,” said one analyst. “What is this madness? Is there really any difference between any of these guys except maybe age?”

Despite the skepticism, Lopez’s signing could provide the Cubs with additional flexibility as they navigate injuries and performance fluctuations throughout the season. The team has yet to announce how Lopez will fit into their immediate plans, but his experience and defensive prowess could prove valuable in a utility role.

As the Cubs continue to fine-tune their roster, fans are left wondering if these moves will translate into success on the field. With spring training on the horizon, the team’s strategy will soon be put to the test.