Cubs Trade Miles Mastrobuoni to Mariners for Cash

CHICAGO, Ill. — The Chicago Cubs have traded utility player Miles Mastrobuoni to the Seattle Mariners for cash considerations, the team announced Monday. The move resolves Mastrobuoni’s designation for assignment last week, following the Cubs’ acquisition of infielder Vidal Brujan from the Texas Rangers.

Mastrobuoni, 28, a left-handed hitter known for his defensive versatility, struggled at the plate during his time with the Cubs, posting a .212 batting average over 90 plate appearances in 2024. Despite his offensive challenges, his ability to play multiple positions and his strong performance in Triple-A made him an attractive option for the Mariners, who sought to bolster their infield depth.

“The Mariners were interested in claiming him on waivers, but they decided to pay a little extra to ensure they got him,” said a source familiar with the negotiations. “There were other teams in the mix, but Seattle stepped up.”

Mastrobuoni, who has one option year remaining, has consistently excelled in the minors, hitting .298 with a .373 on-base percentage in Triple-A last season. His speed and defensive flexibility make him a valuable asset for teams seeking a versatile bench player.

For the Cubs, the trade reflects their ongoing efforts to manage roster overcrowding, particularly in the utility infielder role. The acquisition of Brujan, a switch-hitting infielder with similar versatility, made Mastrobuoni expendable. “It’s a tough decision, but we have to make room for the players who fit our immediate needs,” said Cubs general manager Carter Hawkins.

The Mariners, meanwhile, continue to seek infield reinforcements despite signing veteran Donovan Solano earlier this offseason. Mastrobuoni is expected to compete for a bench role during spring training, providing depth behind starters J.P. Crawford and Josh Rojas.

Mastrobuoni’s departure marks the end of a brief but memorable tenure with the Cubs, where fans affectionately nicknamed him “Master Boner” and “Macaroni.” While his time in Chicago was marked by limited offensive production, his defensive contributions and minor league success suggest he could find a more consistent role in Seattle.

The Cubs are now expected to turn their attention to acquiring an impactful bench bat, as they aim to solidify their roster ahead of the 2025 season.