The Chicago Cubs have a lot of excitement and expectations heading into the 2026 season. While they have some important players on the roster, there is one current free agent who could help the team this season. One outlet is suggesting that general manager Jed Hoyer and the rest of the front office could improve the team with this signing. With less than a week before Opening Day, let’s take a look at who it is and why the Cubs should be interested.
Bleacher Report suggests Jon Berti should sign with the Chicago Cubs
Apr 29, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Cubs third baseman Jon Berti (right) congratulates shortstop Dansby Swanson (7) after hitting a solo home run against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the eighth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Bleacher Report’s Erik Beaston wrote an article where he discussed why the Cubs should sign free agent utilityman Jon Berti. He cites the Seiya Suzuki injury as a way to give him playing time to begin the season, starting games. With the team only having Matt Shaw as a utility player off the bench, this move would also give manager Craig Counsell another option to plug him anywhere that is needed.
Berti had an outstanding performance for Team Italy in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. He played four games in the tournament and went 6 for 16 (.375) with one home run, one RBI, and three runs scored. His 1.132 OPS ranked third on Team Italy for players with at least three games played. Berti’s bat is a major reason why he remains a free agent as last season with the Cubs, he would finish with a .492 OPS over 100 at-bats with zero homers and two RBI.
However, there is a report by MLB Network’s Jon Morosi that shows there is a lot of interest in Berti following the WBC:
“Ten teams have checked in, given Berti’s bat and versatility. He intends to sign with a contender that needs him to play multiple positions.”
This signals Chicago as they would have an opening immediately at right field if Suzuki is out with an injury. They have familiarity with him as well, which should help in this situation. It will be interesting to see if the front office and Berti can agree on a deal to bring him back before the season begins.
Former Cub Kyle Hendricks voted into the “Hall of Pretty Good”
Read More
For More Great Chicago Sports Content
Get the latest Chicago sports news, analysis, and breaking stories on the Bears, Bulls, Blackhawks, Cubs, White Sox, Sky, and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News, so you never miss a story on your favorite Chicago teams.
Follow us on Twitter at @chicitysports23 for more great content. We appreciate you taking time to read our articles. To interact more with our community and keep up to date on the latest in Chicago sports news, JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP by CLICKING HERE