Proposed Reunion Would Replace Cubs’ Struggling Trade Acquisition With Mike Tauchman originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Despite losing three impact starters for an extended period of time (one for the year), the Chicago Cubs still maintain a comfortable lead over the NL Central. However, while their trade deadline priority is the rotation, there are some other areas that could use a boost. One spot in particular would be the bench.
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The combination of Vidal Brujan, Justin Turner, and Jon Berti has failed to produce when on the field, each of whom owns an OPS below .580. But there might be a feasible solution to this north side problem waiting just to the south. Andrew Wright of Newsweek recently suggested replacing Brujan, the infield/outfield utility man, with White Sox right fielder Mike Tauchman.
Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Trea Turner (7) tags out Chicago Cubs outfielder Mike Tauchman (40) while trying to steal second base during the first inning at Citizens Bank Park.Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
“[Mike Tauchman] spent the last two seasons with the Cubs and instantly became a fan favorite due to his heroics in the summer months of the season,” he wrote. “He is batting .297 with three home runs and a .957 OPS in 19 games and 67 at-bats so far this season. Those numbers are well above his .250 average and .732 OPS in his two seasons with the Cubs. Tauchman could provide much more depth than Brujan has given Chicago, and his familiarity with the players and the organization could make him a critical player not only on the field, but in the locker room as well.”
A former top prospect, Brujan was brought to Chicago in a one-for-one swap with the Marlins, who received Matt Mervis in the deal. Since he can play all over the diamond, Brujan is more flexible than Tauchman, as the latter only plays the outfield; however, he has gone 5-for-21 with no walks and two doubles as his only extra-base hits. In 66 at-bats, Tauchman is hitting .288/.415/.530 with three home runs. As it stands, Tauchman would make a vast improvement over Brujan.
Related: Cubs Linked to Orioles Starter as Trade Target Amid Rotation Injuries
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 10, 2025, where it first appeared.