Recently, the Chicago Cubs signed Tyler Austin to a one year, Major League deal. At 34 years, and having spent since 2020 playing in Japan, the first baseman/outfielder projects to be a back up/platoon mate for Michael Busch while also filling in when needed in the outfield and possibly DHing as well.
While adding Austin is by no means a flashy move, it does re-demonstrate the Cubs ability to land talent from Japan. Interestingly, Austin and pitcher Shota Imanaga were formerly teammates on Yokohama BayStars. Seiya Suzuki is another player who signed with Chicago after being a star overseas. Finally, while not first initially signed by the Cubs, Colin Rea rediscovered his form in Japan before signing with the Milwaukee Brewers, but then re-united with Craig Counsell in free agency.
That being said, one MLB Insider is suggesting that more signings from Japan are coming following the Cubs signing Tyler Austin.
After signing Tyler Austin, the bigger picture suggests that the Chicago Cubs could land more players from Japan
May 20, 2018; Kansas City, MO, USA; New York Yankees first baseman Tyler Austin (26) connects for a two run home run in the fifth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
At The Athletic, writer Patrick Mooney acknowledged the Cubs and Japan connection. He also went onto say how this could play a role in Chicago landing top available Japanese talent such as pitcher Tatsuya Imai and hitters Munetaka Murakami and Kuzuma Okamoto.
Mooney’s point highlights how the Austin signing could be about more than signing him for short-term roster depth, as by continuing to build relationships and familiarity with the Japanese baseball market, the Cubs are positioning themselves as a serious and informed destination for elite NPB talent.
Whether or not that translates into more signing from Japan this off-season or not is yet to be seen, but it could pay dividends down the road.
Chicago Cubs president confirms disappointing strategy on offseason spending
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